IMO DR. Bronner was only waiting for someone he felt could not just run the company, but mend labor relations and move this operation forward.. Before investing any further RSA funds... Mr Parker is just that type of person.
Being as anything AWA related would have TPG involved, that meant that Gordon Bethune was out of the picture, and that leaves the sole remaining bright spot in recent major airline CEO's as Mr. Parker.
Because it could be the smartest deal ever, with ample financial backing and support... And still fail if the right leadership is not in place.
A well Run combination of US and AW would be a sharp company
One thing that I must disagree with A320 upon is the need for a midcontinent hub. It is old school thinking. I can tell you that the region has a number of decent markets that would be great for direct flights to our focus cities, and connecting flights into a PHX, PHL, or CLT hub.
OMA for example, would support a E-170 to either LGA or DCA, and to CLT and PHX. But to connect to STL or DEN would compete with the more numerous connections from ORD, DFW, and MSP. (Not to mention the established carriers in DEN and STL)
No, the best use of, and competitive advantage is to bypass the fun, games, and cost of a place like ORD, and travel direct instead.
If we have to hub, we should only do it where we are strong, and where we can provide something of value. PHX is great for the west Coast and Rockies domestically, and Central and Southern America Internationally. CLT is best for the Southeastern US and Carribean