I think it is inevitable that EK and SQ will get access rights but it still may take a few years.
I also think that the decision is ultmiately political. As we are approaching a recession and the profit margins of
VB and QF come under pressure (possibly
VB more than QF), the last thing the Government wants is a domestic carrier that goes belly up. The Government has also stated it will allow VAus a bit of time to establish itself.
Adding in the current Boeing delays and impending recession, the Government is not going to let any other carrier into the east Coast US market until it is certain
VB does not go belly up and we are well and truly on our way out of recession. My guess is EK and SQ in about 4-5 years