Why the new American is keeping both the current US/AA hubs

Here’s an interesting look on what American feels is important about each of its hubs, and why they each play a vital role in the operation of the new airline.

 

Charlotte

Provides customers with domestic connections and access along the East Coast; well-suited to serve international destinations that complement oneworld and AJB partners’ networks.

My thoughts: Charlotte will see an increase in domestic connecting traffic, but a reduction in international service for more favorable hubs such as JFK or MIA.

Washington National

Supplies nonstop feed to all of American’s seven international gateways and operates regular flights daily to major hubs connecting important markets from the nation’s capital

My thoughts: DCA is a major hub because it feeds heavy traffic into feeder hubs – mainly Dallas, Chicago and Miami, for international flights and connecting domestic itineraries. DCA will continue to grow as a hub and service a major launching point for east coast domestic travel.

Dallas Ft. Worth

Provides good feed for East and West Coast customers via its central location and service as a global gateway to Asia, Europe and our network in Latin America

My thoughts: Because DFW is centrally located, it serves as an excellent connection point for coast-to-coast travel.

New York (JFK and DCA)

A destination in itself that connects the largest air travel market in the U.S. to our international network, with an emphasis on Europe via JFK and domestic network via LGA

My thoughts: While I wish AA would increase presence at JFK, their hub there is mainly concentrated on European routes, while the smaller, but robust LGA is concentrated on domestic hops.

Los Angeles

The second largest air travel market in the U.S. and continues to be strengthened with markets that match domestic and international demand from customers in Southern California

My thoughts: American pioneered the transcon route, and their presence at LAX identifies them with this accomplishment. While I hope they increase the amount of short hops from LAX (to various coastal cities, and western attractions), I think American is moving toward a more long-haul approach, and to competing cities of other airlines, such as Atlanta.

Miami

Placed perfectly to access Mexico, Caribbean and other Latin American markets, and a growing trans-Atlantic and domestic gateway; connects traffic from our oneworld and AJB partners

My thoughts: MIA is an excellent launch point for southern destinations and South America, and will be key to AA’s success in that market.

Chicago

A key business market that provides connecting customers a central location to access service to all points in the U.S., Europe and Asia

My thoughts: Like DFW, Chicago is centrally located, and provides a great connection point for northern cross-country routes.

Philadelphia

A domestic and international gateway serving destinations to support our domestic and international network, as well as our oneworld and AJB partners

My thoughts: Philadelphia has a strong ground operation, and I think will grow internationally and relieve traffic off of the congested JFK and LGA airports.

Phoenix

Connects customers from coast to coast and to leisure destinations in North America

My thoughts: I think PHX is like the forgotten step-child and will once be faded out in favor of connections in DFW or LAX.