This could to crimp some airline expansion plans – and change your travel itinerary as well. In the wake of a wretched 59 percent on-time arrival rate at New York Kennedy (JFK) in July 2007, the Department of Transportation wants airlines to get together and figure out how to axe some of their flights at the airport. The meeting is set for October 23 through 24.
DOT just set a target of 80 flights per hour from 6am through 9.59pm, and wants carriers to more efficiently space those flights – with no more than 24 per 15-minute period.
To reach that goal, “Our strong preference is to develop market-based solutions that will address delays and preserve passenger choice,” says Transportation Secretary Mary E. Peters. “But we will consider scheduling reductions as a last resort to prevent a repeat of this summer’s scheduling nightmare.”
While all in favor of stemming delays, the airline industry doesn’t think much of DOT’s approach to the problem. “This is a disappointing decision,” says James C. May, president of the Air Transport Association, an industry trade group. “Slashing operations at JFK alone will not solve the congestion problem, but will shut the door for growth or our country’s leading international gateway.”
In addition to being a prime international launching pad for a slew of foreign carriers, JFK is a major international gateway for both Delta Air Lines, and American Airlines. It’s also discount airline JetBlue’s largest hub.
Cheapflights will keep a close eye on how all this plays out. Whatever the outcome, it could well affect how, and from where, you fly.
© Cheapflights Ltd Jerry Chandler
