In season 6, episode 2 of the Airways Podcast, before we get to the main topics, we share our experiences flying on United’s CRJ550 and the new Airbus A321neo. We also discuss Delta’s A321neo, which is stylish but lacks practicality in seating and storage space. Finally, we give mixed reviews on Delta’s overall performance due to delays and operational inefficiencies, particularly at Boston Logan, and praise United’s domestic performance for consistency and comfort. Main Topics Alaska-Hawaiian Airlines Merger * Despite recent aggressive antitrust policies, DOJ clears the merger after a 90-day review period. * Discussion on potential future regulatory steps, including slot and gate concessions. * Speculation on operational impacts, including how Alaska might handle Hawaiian’s routes and the financial challenges involved. Delta Airlines COO Departure * COO’s exit following Delta’s tech outage raises questions about whether it was a direct result of the incident. * Delta’s operational reliability has slipped post-pandemic, contributing to dissatisfaction. Ethiopian Airlines' New Mega Airport * The announcement of a new airport in Bishoftu, which will open in 2029, is designed to improve capacity and mitigate the operational challenges of Addis Ababa’s high elevation. * The significance of Ethiopian Airlines’ growth and prospects as Africa’s leading airline. Other Insights Reflections on the current state of Southwest Airlines and its inter-island flights in Hawaii. Strategic considerations in the airline industry: balancing growth, mergers, and maintaining operational reliability. Hosted by Helwing Villamizar, Rohan Anand, and Vinay Bhaskara Produced by Helwing Villamizar Music by Alisia from Pixabay Episode Links Alaska-Hawaiian Merger Clears DOJ Review Period Delta Air Lines COO to Depart Following Tech Outage Ethiopian Airlines, Dar to Build Mega Airport City This is a public episode. If you’d like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit airwaysmagazine.substack.com/subscribe