SkyTeam failed to deliver on promises and value to customers and airlines – Delta Airlines CEO

Delta CEO Ed Bastian told Bloomberg that the SkyTeam, of which Delta is a part, hasn’t “brought a lot of great value to customers..[or] to member airlines” and so they’re trying to create their “own international network of carriers” with Delta “as the centerpiece.”

The Atlanta-based carriers is shifting away from an alliance focus and “taking a different approach” where they use local airline brands that can operate in local markets around the world and influence those airlines to be more efficient.

There’s no indication that Delta will leave SkyTeam and his notion that it hasn’t brought value to customers or airlines is likely overstated. However it’s been clear for some time that Delta was headed away from valuing alliance partnerships to focus on ownership or other airlines.

Via Bloomberg / View from the Wing