The Next Great U.S. Airfare Battle and 6 Other Aviation Trends This Week

Throughout the week we post dozens of original stories, connecting the dots across the travel industry, and every weekend we sum it all up. This weekend roundup examines aviation.

For all of our weekend roundups, go here.

>>With good management, this ultra low-cost airline strategy is profitable just about everywhere. The key? Airlines like Viva Aerobus must be fanatical about costs, and they must provide the cheapest fares, all the time. They also should treat their customers fairly: Interview: Viva Aerobus CEO on Why Half-Standing Seats Still Intrigue Him

>>The best CEOs know when to quit and Carolyn McCall’s decision to jump ship at a pivotal time for UK airlines is perhaps a sign that there might be tough times ahead: EasyJet CEO Carolyn McCall Quits to Join UK Broadcaster

>>In recent years, many Alaska Airlines frequent flyers liked to fly American, because they would receive loyalty benefits even when flying the competition. But starting next year, that perk will end, and that’s not great news for road warriors: The Business of Loyalty: Alaska and American Drastically Reduce Their Frequent Flyer Partnership

>>In-flight safety videos are fascinating in that they all must stick to the same script. What airlines decide to do with this locked-in time is always an extension of their brand: British Airways Turns to A-List Actors for New Safety Video

>>Many airlines have rewritten loyalty rules in recent years to make their programs more profitable and reward the most lucrative travelers. But our data show many U.S. travelers don’t want to play by those rules and aren’t loyal to any airline: Travel Habits of Americans: U.S. Travelers Shun Airline Loyalty Programs

>>Will United Airlines ever take the 35 Airbus A350s it has on order? At one point, it had an acute need for the new long-haul aircraft. But times change, and United already has a worthy successor for its Boeing 747 fleet — the Boeing 777-300ER: United Airlines Hits Pause on Delivery of Passenger-Friendly Airbus Jets

>>It’s not clear whether United or Frontier will win this battle in Denver. But what is nearly certain is that passengers will be the beneficiaries. They’ll likely find cheaper fares: Here’s Why the Next Great U.S. Airfare Battle Will Take Place in Denver