I agree with apacau ,SQ operating on Trans Pacific, would allow UA the ability to code share ,then redeploy their equipment to other areas for a more cost effective operation.
As far as a 'domestic operation' all SQ would have to do is join their existing Australian destinations together with just a couple of connections in line with their existing timetable and you would have the fabled 'SQ Domestic Network'. Admittedly, a limited network, but was it going to be anything else in the first place ?
They start it up using their existing aircraft , changing flight routes,cycle A/C to come down from SIN, a few domestic sectors, then either return to Asia or across the Pacific. The result:
Star Alliance patchs up the hole in their gobal network.
SQ gain oncarriage exAustralia to USA, and who knows where else
The QF/ANZ alliance could shake the ACCC off.
I admitt it is simple view, but could it be possible ?
The REAL prize here for SQ, is an expansion of their network across the Pacific, if to gain that ,they need to set up a 'domestic network' how badly do they want or 'need' this expansion ? How badly does QF need an alliance with ANZ ? Would QF stay in bed with ANZ and let SQ move into the Pacific market ?
Last edited by Airtart; 9th May 2003 at 11:14.