Hell, lets get this into some perspective. Both DL and UA are in chapter 11 which is the same as 'Get out of jail free card' whilst STILL amassing hugh losses. In contrast QF and
VB have to play with there hands tied behind there backs on a very uneven playing field. Both DL and UA should have gone long ago, BUT Chapter 11 just keeps them going as if they were owned by the Government with endless resources and little or no accountability.
Hell, let's check our facts too!!
United Airlines emerged from Chapter 11 protection in February 2006 after the bankruptcy courts approved their restructuring plan in January of the same year. Delta Airlines along with its debtors also emerged from Chapter 11 in the northern summer of 2007.
They are commercial entities that carry no government protection (other than some US guvmint-travellers using their "own" airlines when crossing the Pacific. Hardly any different to the deals struck between QANTAS (and to a lesser degree VA) and the Australian government.