Originally Posted by
dutch_oven
They used to say you need aircraft in the air to keep the profitable frequent flyer program going. It seems they've found a way around this by using other other airline's aircraft. Now they can gradually retire the entire QF international fleet and grow the frequent flyer program which is where the real money is.
Reconfiguring Qf international makes sense and money. This is only necessary because of the sins of past and present management.
Getting rid of Qf international makes no sense nor any money. If emirates has a monopoly position on the Qf freq flyers, it will squeeze Qf's profits until there is nothing left for Qf. Qf must maintain an airborne presence to ensure a profitable position can be negotiated and maintained.
Emirates has a great network but it doesn't help across the pacific or into Asia.