The Air Show Thu, 08 Oct 2026 06:00:00 -0400 https://www.theairshowpodcast.com en-us © 2026 Cranky Flier LLC yes 2c0efd45-e4b7-565a-b391-3fa31b371e98 Cranky Flier LLC episodic false Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder discuss the business of the sky on this aviation podcast.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) Cranky Flier LLC https://storage.buzzsprout.com/hx8dchlfs929gu0igcej6phhxczb?.jpg The Air Show https://www.theairshowpodcast.com A Joint Venture Primer A Joint Venture Primer Alaska Airlines recently announced its plan to join American’s immunized joint ventures over the North Pacific and over the Atlantic. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers, and Brett Snyder talk about the competitive and regulatory stakes, and how decades of airline policy, open-skies agreements, and consolidation shaped today’s global partnerships.

Thanks to this episode's sponsors: Alaska–Hawaiian pilots, Plusgrade, and Tulsa International Airport.

]]> Alaska Airlines recently announced its plan to join American’s immunized joint ventures over the North Pacific and over the Atlantic. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers, and Brett Snyder talk about the competitive and regulatory stakes, and how decades of airline policy, open-skies agreements, and consolidation shaped today’s global partnerships.

Thanks to this episode's sponsors: Alaska–Hawaiian pilots, Plusgrade, and Tulsa International Airport.

]]> Cranky Flier LLC Buzzsprout-19928580 Thu, 08 Oct 2026 03:00:00 -0700 2205 114 full false The Air Show Live at Alaska Investor Day The Air Show Live at Alaska Investor Day Alaska Airlines President and CFO Shane Tackett joins Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers, and Brett Snyder in front of a live audience in Seattle to talk about Alaska's media and investor day. They talk about the company's push into premium travel, its plans for 737 MAX 10 transcontinental service, free Starlink Wi-Fi, and more.

Thanks to SkyGo and PlusGrade for sponsoring this week's episode.

]]> Alaska Airlines President and CFO Shane Tackett joins Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers, and Brett Snyder in front of a live audience in Seattle to talk about Alaska's media and investor day. They talk about the company's push into premium travel, its plans for 737 MAX 10 transcontinental service, free Starlink Wi-Fi, and more.

Thanks to SkyGo and PlusGrade for sponsoring this week's episode.

]]> Cranky Flier LLC Buzzsprout-19893187 Thu, 01 Oct 2026 03:00:00 -0700 3145 113 full false Lounges Are The New Moneymaker Lounges Are The New Moneymaker Airline lounges have evolved from exclusive perks into a powerful revenue engine driven by memberships, premium tickets, and credit card partnerships. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers, and Brett Snyder unpack the increasingly complicated rules behind lounge access, the rise of premium card lounges, and why overcrowding is forcing airlines to rethink the airport experience.

Thanks to Alaska-Hawaiian Airlines Pilots, SkyGo and PlusGrade for sponsoring this week's episode




]]> Airline lounges have evolved from exclusive perks into a powerful revenue engine driven by memberships, premium tickets, and credit card partnerships. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers, and Brett Snyder unpack the increasingly complicated rules behind lounge access, the rise of premium card lounges, and why overcrowding is forcing airlines to rethink the airport experience.

Thanks to Alaska-Hawaiian Airlines Pilots, SkyGo and PlusGrade for sponsoring this week's episode




]]> Cranky Flier LLC Buzzsprout-19861478 Fri, 25 Sep 2026 03:00:00 -0700 2354 112 full false An Extra Long Range Summer is Coming An Extra Long Range Summer is Coming Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder dissect the airlines’ plans for summer 2027, led by the rapid rollout of the Airbus A321XLR. It's supposed to be the game changer for longer, thinner routes, and they examine how United, American and Air Canada are each approaching the aircraft a little differently with routes to Europe and Asia.

Thanks to the Alaska-Hawaiian Airlines Pilots and Flex Pay by Upgrade for sponsoring this episode.

]]> Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder dissect the airlines’ plans for summer 2027, led by the rapid rollout of the Airbus A321XLR. It's supposed to be the game changer for longer, thinner routes, and they examine how United, American and Air Canada are each approaching the aircraft a little differently with routes to Europe and Asia.

Thanks to the Alaska-Hawaiian Airlines Pilots and Flex Pay by Upgrade for sponsoring this episode.

]]> Cranky Flier LLC Buzzsprout-19817471 Thu, 17 Sep 2026 03:00:00 -0700 2036 111 full false American Needs More Urgency American Needs More Urgency Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder unpack American Airlines's latest course corrections to play catch-up with Delta and United, from adding more premium seats and bringing back screens to reshuffling senior leadership. It's good news, but is it happening quickly enough?

Thanks to this week's sponsor Flex Pay by Upgrade.

]]> Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder unpack American Airlines's latest course corrections to play catch-up with Delta and United, from adding more premium seats and bringing back screens to reshuffling senior leadership. It's good news, but is it happening quickly enough?

Thanks to this week's sponsor Flex Pay by Upgrade.

]]> Cranky Flier LLC Buzzsprout-19709435 Thu, 27 Aug 2026 05:00:00 -0700 2372 109 full false Southwest's COO on the MAX 7 and Ops Fixes Southwest's COO on the MAX 7 and Ops Fixes Southwest’s Chief Operating Officer Andrew Watterson joins Brett Snyder to talk about the certification of the MAX 7, the airline’s operational troubles, and yes, even Andrew’s responsibilities themselves.

Thank you to Points, a Plusgrade company and SkyGo for sponsoring this week's episode.



]]> Southwest’s Chief Operating Officer Andrew Watterson joins Brett Snyder to talk about the certification of the MAX 7, the airline’s operational troubles, and yes, even Andrew’s responsibilities themselves.

Thank you to Points, a Plusgrade company and SkyGo for sponsoring this week's episode.



]]> Cranky Flier LLC Buzzsprout-19674810 Thu, 20 Aug 2026 03:00:00 -0700 2207 108 full false The Shifting Role of LaGuardia The Shifting Role of LaGuardia LaGuardia is one of the most congested airports in the country, and the way that airport has been used has changed dramatically over time. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder dig into LaGuardia’s service over the years and where it might go in the future.

Thank you to Points, a Plusgrade company for sponsoring this week's episode.

]]> LaGuardia is one of the most congested airports in the country, and the way that airport has been used has changed dramatically over time. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder dig into LaGuardia’s service over the years and where it might go in the future.

Thank you to Points, a Plusgrade company for sponsoring this week's episode.

]]> Cranky Flier LLC Buzzsprout-19607123 Thu, 06 Aug 2026 03:00:00 -0700 2092 107 full true The Air Show Attends An Air Show The Air Show Attends An Air Show Jon Ostrower is back to talk about what he saw at the Farnborough International Airshow in the UK. He tells Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder about the breakthrough of a Saab 340B modified with a hybrid electric power design, how the show was surprisingly weighted towards the defense industry, and more.

Thank you to SkyGo for sponsoring this week's episode.

]]> Jon Ostrower is back to talk about what he saw at the Farnborough International Airshow in the UK. He tells Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder about the breakthrough of a Saab 340B modified with a hybrid electric power design, how the show was surprisingly weighted towards the defense industry, and more.

Thank you to SkyGo for sponsoring this week's episode.

]]> Cranky Flier LLC Buzzsprout-19578957 Fri, 31 Jul 2026 03:00:00 -0700 1832 106 full false The Unsettled Transpacific The Unsettled Transpacific Transatlantic strategies are pretty well set for North American carriers, but transpacific strategies are definitely not. Delta seems to be making its move now, though Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder disagree on whether this should have happened earlier. This week, we talk about that and all the airlines that are trying to cement their place across the Pacific.

Thank you to SkyGo for sponsoring this week's episode.

]]> Transatlantic strategies are pretty well set for North American carriers, but transpacific strategies are definitely not. Delta seems to be making its move now, though Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder disagree on whether this should have happened earlier. This week, we talk about that and all the airlines that are trying to cement their place across the Pacific.

Thank you to SkyGo for sponsoring this week's episode.

]]> Cranky Flier LLC Buzzsprout-19535594 Thu, 23 Jul 2026 03:00:00 -0700 1905 105 full false Mergers Improve Competition Mergers Improve Competition The U.S. Government Accountability Office came out with a new report on airline competition and the challenges for lower-cost airlines. But Brett Snyder and guest host Courtney Miller, founder and managing director of Visual Approach, poke holes in why this report isn’t all that useful, even if it’s not a bad report itself.

Thank you to Points, a Plusgrade company and SkyGo for sponsoring this week's episode.

SHOW NOTES: GAO's report, "AIRLINE COMPETITION: Indicators Suggest
Increased Competition in the Past Two Decades, but Lower-Cost Airlines Face Challenges" - https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-26-107740.pdf

]]> The U.S. Government Accountability Office came out with a new report on airline competition and the challenges for lower-cost airlines. But Brett Snyder and guest host Courtney Miller, founder and managing director of Visual Approach, poke holes in why this report isn’t all that useful, even if it’s not a bad report itself.

Thank you to Points, a Plusgrade company and SkyGo for sponsoring this week's episode.

SHOW NOTES: GAO's report, "AIRLINE COMPETITION: Indicators Suggest
Increased Competition in the Past Two Decades, but Lower-Cost Airlines Face Challenges" - https://www.gao.gov/assets/gao-26-107740.pdf

]]> Cranky Flier LLC Buzzsprout-19501056 Thu, 16 Jul 2026 03:00:00 -0700 1629 104 full false Is There Room For An All-Premium Airline? Is There Room For An All-Premium Airline? A listener asked why can’t an airline be successful doing either a premium or, at least, an elevated experience? Something like a resurrected Midwest Express? Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder explain how the economics – from segmentation to upselling – make it pretty hard for that to be viable.

Thanks to SkyGo for sponsoring this episode.

Got your own question? Send it to info@theairshowpodcast.com

]]> A listener asked why can’t an airline be successful doing either a premium or, at least, an elevated experience? Something like a resurrected Midwest Express? Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder explain how the economics – from segmentation to upselling – make it pretty hard for that to be viable.

Thanks to SkyGo for sponsoring this episode.

Got your own question? Send it to info@theairshowpodcast.com

]]> Cranky Flier LLC Buzzsprout-19467561 Thu, 09 Jul 2026 03:00:00 -0700 1946 103 full false The Unique Hawaiian Interisland Market The Unique Hawaiian Interisland Market Hawaiʻi is more than paradise, it's also home to the unique and complex interisland market. Between the dramatically shifting demand and the nature of the flying that limits the choice of fleet, Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder talk about how airlines like Hawaiian and Southwest have to successfully navigate this important market.

Thanks to SkyGo for sponsoring this episode.

The Air Show will be taking a break for the July 4th weekend. We'll be back the following week.

]]> Hawaiʻi is more than paradise, it's also home to the unique and complex interisland market. Between the dramatically shifting demand and the nature of the flying that limits the choice of fleet, Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder talk about how airlines like Hawaiian and Southwest have to successfully navigate this important market.

Thanks to SkyGo for sponsoring this episode.

The Air Show will be taking a break for the July 4th weekend. We'll be back the following week.

]]> Cranky Flier LLC Buzzsprout-19405512 Fri, 26 Jun 2026 03:00:00 -0700 2174 102 full false Gossip, Hot Topics, and Jumpseats at IATA Gossip, Hot Topics, and Jumpseats at IATA Brian Sumers and Jon Ostrower are back from the IATA annual general meeting in Rio. They tell Brett Snyder about what they saw and heard, from how US airlines aren't worried about the price of fuel to the way fares are moving differently in the US compared to Europe.

Thank you to Points, a Plusgrade company, for sponsoring this week's episode.

SHOW NOTES:

The number of times Scott Kirby has been mentioned on the show

]]> Brian Sumers and Jon Ostrower are back from the IATA annual general meeting in Rio. They tell Brett Snyder about what they saw and heard, from how US airlines aren't worried about the price of fuel to the way fares are moving differently in the US compared to Europe.

Thank you to Points, a Plusgrade company, for sponsoring this week's episode.

SHOW NOTES:

The number of times Scott Kirby has been mentioned on the show

]]> Cranky Flier LLC Buzzsprout-19365191 Thu, 18 Jun 2026 03:00:00 -0700 1867 101 full false Jon Says U.S. Airlines Are Going In Reverse Jon Says U.S. Airlines Are Going In Reverse U.S. aviation, the world’s original air travel marketplace, is going backwards rapidly. That's what Jon Ostrower argues, and he says there are signs in things like premium, capacity and airports. He'll try to convince Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder that America's aviation industry is on the verge of a major structural shift.

Thank you to Points, a Plusgrade company, for sponsoring this week's episode.

]]> U.S. aviation, the world’s original air travel marketplace, is going backwards rapidly. That's what Jon Ostrower argues, and he says there are signs in things like premium, capacity and airports. He'll try to convince Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder that America's aviation industry is on the verge of a major structural shift.

Thank you to Points, a Plusgrade company, for sponsoring this week's episode.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-19284576 Fri, 05 Jun 2026 03:00:00 -0700 1972 100 full false Fort Lauderdale: The Most Interesting Airport in America Fort Lauderdale: The Most Interesting Airport in America With its largest airline – Spirit – out of business, FLL has become a fascinating airport where airlines are all jockeying for position. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder talk about which airlines are trying to get a leg up in Fort Lauderdale and, for that matter, all of South Florida.

Thank you to Points, a Plusgrade company, for sponsoring this week's episode. 

]]> With its largest airline – Spirit – out of business, FLL has become a fascinating airport where airlines are all jockeying for position. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder talk about which airlines are trying to get a leg up in Fort Lauderdale and, for that matter, all of South Florida.

Thank you to Points, a Plusgrade company, for sponsoring this week's episode. 

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-19217938 Thu, 21 May 2026 11:00:00 -0700 1597 99 full false Allegiant Drops The Drama Allegiant Drops The Drama Just a few months after selling its ill-fated hotel in Florida, Allegiant completed one of its most profitable quarters in recent memory. Now, it needs to focus on how it can make its acquisition of Sun Country a winner. With the deal now closed, Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers, and Brett Snyder explain how the acquisition fits into Allegiant's strategy for growth.



]]> Just a few months after selling its ill-fated hotel in Florida, Allegiant completed one of its most profitable quarters in recent memory. Now, it needs to focus on how it can make its acquisition of Sun Country a winner. With the deal now closed, Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers, and Brett Snyder explain how the acquisition fits into Allegiant's strategy for growth.



]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-19174814 Thu, 14 May 2026 03:00:00 -0700 1875 98 full false The Government’s Role In Spirit’s Demise The Government’s Role In Spirit’s Demise Spirit is the first major airline to have abruptly shut down in the U.S. since 1991. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder explain how the government, from the Obama Administration to now, all had a role in the company's demise.

Thanks to Plusgrade for sponsoring this episode.

]]> Spirit is the first major airline to have abruptly shut down in the U.S. since 1991. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder explain how the government, from the Obama Administration to now, all had a role in the company's demise.

Thanks to Plusgrade for sponsoring this episode.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-19138874 Thu, 07 May 2026 03:00:00 -0700 1651 97 full false The A220-500, An Airplane Palate Cleanser The A220-500, An Airplane Palate Cleanser The Airbus A220 Stretch, aka the A220-500, is a plane that's stalked the industry since the C Series was launched in 2008. But it sure looks like Airbus is getting closer to bringing it to reality. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder talk about why it was a threat to Boeing then, but not to Boeing now.

We would like to thank Delight.ai for supporting The Air Show.

]]> The Airbus A220 Stretch, aka the A220-500, is a plane that's stalked the industry since the C Series was launched in 2008. But it sure looks like Airbus is getting closer to bringing it to reality. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder talk about why it was a threat to Boeing then, but not to Boeing now.

We would like to thank Delight.ai for supporting The Air Show.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-19104763 Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:00:00 -0700 1740 96 full false The Government is Making Things Worse The Government is Making Things Worse There’s been overwhelming weirdness in the decisions coming out of the federal government, and it is creating real harm in this industry. Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder talk about the President weighing in about a rumored United-American merger, Trump's suggestion that the government bail out Spirit, and the heated transcripts of an FAA meeting around who could fly what at O'Hare.

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Show Notes:

U.S. DOT/FAA - Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) Scheduling Reduction Meeting Transcripts – https://www.regulations.gov/document/FAA-2004-16944-0165





]]> There’s been overwhelming weirdness in the decisions coming out of the federal government, and it is creating real harm in this industry. Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder talk about the President weighing in about a rumored United-American merger, Trump's suggestion that the government bail out Spirit, and the heated transcripts of an FAA meeting around who could fly what at O'Hare.

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Show Notes:

U.S. DOT/FAA - Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) Scheduling Reduction Meeting Transcripts – https://www.regulations.gov/document/FAA-2004-16944-0165





]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-19062469 Wed, 22 Apr 2026 03:00:00 -0700 1743 95 full false We Have to Talk About Mergers We Have to Talk About Mergers Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said recently that the administration would like to see one of the larger airlines buy one of the smaller ones. At around the same time, Bloomberg reported that United talked about buying American. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder discuss how real any of this is, and what it would look like if any of the U.S. airlines merged.

]]> Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy said recently that the administration would like to see one of the larger airlines buy one of the smaller ones. At around the same time, Bloomberg reported that United talked about buying American. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder discuss how real any of this is, and what it would look like if any of the U.S. airlines merged.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-19024580 Thu, 16 Apr 2026 03:00:00 -0700 1523 94 full false Breeze's Lukas Johnson Sounds Off Breeze's Lukas Johnson Sounds Off Brian Sumers talks with Lukas Johnson, Breeze Airways' opinionated chief commercial officer, to get his views on demand, fuel costs, credit card revenues and the power of an airline's brand. He also tells us who he thinks should replace Robert Isom (if Isom is let go) and why he's happy to be known as the industry's second-most arrogant commercial mind.

Thanks to Gilat Stellar Blu for sponsoring this episode.

]]> Brian Sumers talks with Lukas Johnson, Breeze Airways' opinionated chief commercial officer, to get his views on demand, fuel costs, credit card revenues and the power of an airline's brand. He also tells us who he thinks should replace Robert Isom (if Isom is let go) and why he's happy to be known as the industry's second-most arrogant commercial mind.

Thanks to Gilat Stellar Blu for sponsoring this episode.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-18986313 Thu, 09 Apr 2026 03:00:00 -0700 2499 full false Oil, and the Rest of the World Oil, and the Rest of the World U.S. airlines may be cautiously optimistic about the effect that high oil prices will have on their bottom line, but not so much executives at non-U.S. airlines. Fuel is really expensive out there for them. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder talk about the real concerns those companies have about covering their costs.

Thanks to Flagstaff Pulliam Airport for sponsoring this episode.

]]> U.S. airlines may be cautiously optimistic about the effect that high oil prices will have on their bottom line, but not so much executives at non-U.S. airlines. Fuel is really expensive out there for them. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder talk about the real concerns those companies have about covering their costs.

Thanks to Flagstaff Pulliam Airport for sponsoring this episode.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-18952695 Thu, 02 Apr 2026 13:00:00 -0700 1638 92 full false United’s Media Day Extravaganza United’s Media Day Extravaganza Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder report back from United's media day where new hard products were shown off on several different aircraft. It was also on full display that the airline has been preparing for the next downturn with strategies that allow it to move forward with long term plans even when things don’t look good in the short term.  

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

]]> Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder report back from United's media day where new hard products were shown off on several different aircraft. It was also on full display that the airline has been preparing for the next downturn with strategies that allow it to move forward with long term plans even when things don’t look good in the short term.  

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-18910602 Thu, 26 Mar 2026 03:00:00 -0700 1720 91 full false Euphoria Sweeps the Airlines Euphoria Sweeps the Airlines U.S. airlines gave an update of the business at the JP Morgan Industrials Conference and, despite the state of the world and spiking fuel prices, they basically said everything is awesome. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder explain the reasons why the airlines are optimistic, including high consumer demand.

]]> U.S. airlines gave an update of the business at the JP Morgan Industrials Conference and, despite the state of the world and spiking fuel prices, they basically said everything is awesome. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder explain the reasons why the airlines are optimistic, including high consumer demand.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-18872397 Thu, 19 Mar 2026 03:00:00 -0700 2349 90 full false The Myriad Aviation Angles in The War In Iran The Myriad Aviation Angles in The War In Iran The war in Iran sent a massive wave of disruption to flights operating throughout the region and any flight crossing overhead because it's a major aerial thoroughfare between India, Australia, Southeast Asia and Europe. Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder examine the long-term effect on flows to places like Dubai and Doha as superconnecting hubs, and the impact that the swings in oil prices will have on all airlines globally.

]]> The war in Iran sent a massive wave of disruption to flights operating throughout the region and any flight crossing overhead because it's a major aerial thoroughfare between India, Australia, Southeast Asia and Europe. Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder examine the long-term effect on flows to places like Dubai and Doha as superconnecting hubs, and the impact that the swings in oil prices will have on all airlines globally.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-18832286 Thu, 12 Mar 2026 03:00:00 -0700 1653 89 full false A Path for Spirit/The Chicago Drama A Path for Spirit/The Chicago Drama Spirit Airlines has a plan to save itself by adjusting to seasonal demand, pivoting into more premium seats and shrinking its debt and lease obligations. Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder break down whether the move will revive the Spirit brand. Plus, the FAA is stepping in to mediate the "arms race" by American and United to win future gate space at O'Hare.

Reach top leadership and decision-makers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Spirit Airlines has a plan to save itself by adjusting to seasonal demand, pivoting into more premium seats and shrinking its debt and lease obligations. Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder break down whether the move will revive the Spirit brand. Plus, the FAA is stepping in to mediate the "arms race" by American and United to win future gate space at O'Hare.

Reach top leadership and decision-makers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-18793914 Thu, 05 Mar 2026 03:00:00 -0800 1594 88 full false United Changes MileagePlus To Reward Cardholders United Changes MileagePlus To Reward Cardholders United announced major changes last week to its MileagePlus loyalty program. It soon will offer the biggest incentives to credit cardholders, while removing perks from other flyers. Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder discuss why it's a good thing that United is rewarding its best customers, even if some travelers are upset.

Reach top leadership and decision-makers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> United announced major changes last week to its MileagePlus loyalty program. It soon will offer the biggest incentives to credit cardholders, while removing perks from other flyers. Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder discuss why it's a good thing that United is rewarding its best customers, even if some travelers are upset.

Reach top leadership and decision-makers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-18749483 Thu, 26 Feb 2026 03:00:00 -0800 2147 87 full false Where in the World is Steve Giordano Where in the World is Steve Giordano This week, Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers welcome one of the most well travelled humans on the planet, Steve Giordano. He's founder of Nomadic Aviation Group and star of the YouTube channel "Cockpit Casual." They talk about the business of ferry airplanes around the world, what it was like for Steve to consult on the second season of HBO's "The Rehearsal," and more.

Reach top leadership and decision-makers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> This week, Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers welcome one of the most well travelled humans on the planet, Steve Giordano. He's founder of Nomadic Aviation Group and star of the YouTube channel "Cockpit Casual." They talk about the business of ferry airplanes around the world, what it was like for Steve to consult on the second season of HBO's "The Rehearsal," and more.

Reach top leadership and decision-makers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-18720671 Fri, 20 Feb 2026 15:00:00 -0800 2451 86 full false Frontier Goes Back to Big and Traditional Frontier Goes Back to Big and Traditional There was a great deal of intrigue surrounding Frontier Airlines not for what it did, but for what it didn’t do – sell tickets beyond early April until just recently. But what is clear is that there is a shift under the brand new CEO Jimmy Dempsey. Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder talk about how Frontier is returning to growth and also going back to basics.

Reach top leadership and decision-makers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> There was a great deal of intrigue surrounding Frontier Airlines not for what it did, but for what it didn’t do – sell tickets beyond early April until just recently. But what is clear is that there is a shift under the brand new CEO Jimmy Dempsey. Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder talk about how Frontier is returning to growth and also going back to basics.

Reach top leadership and decision-makers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-18667496 Thu, 12 Feb 2026 03:00:00 -0800 1435 85 full false Southwest’s Big Changes are Done, Now What? Southwest’s Big Changes are Done, Now What? Southwest made big changes in the past year, including the introduction of checked bag fees and assigned seating. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder talk about where the shifts take the airline with two Southwest executives – COO Andrew Watterson, and EVP and CFO Tom Doxey.

Reach top leadership and decision-makers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.


]]> Southwest made big changes in the past year, including the introduction of checked bag fees and assigned seating. Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder talk about where the shifts take the airline with two Southwest executives – COO Andrew Watterson, and EVP and CFO Tom Doxey.

Reach top leadership and decision-makers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.


]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-18607103 Mon, 02 Feb 2026 03:00:00 -0800 2111 84 full false Allegiant and Sun Country: An Obvious Combination? Allegiant and Sun Country: An Obvious Combination? Allegiant announced it will buy Sun Country with the deal expected to close later this year. Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder debate the possible benefits and risks of this combo.

Reach top leadership and decision-makers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Allegiant announced it will buy Sun Country with the deal expected to close later this year. Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder debate the possible benefits and risks of this combo.

Reach top leadership and decision-makers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-18587452 Thu, 29 Jan 2026 04:00:00 -0800 1878 full false The 787-10 is having a moment The 787-10 is having a moment Boeing's 787-9 has been the sexy airplane in the Dreamliner lineup until now, with the 787-10 occupying a smaller niche. But more recently, the 787-10 has excited Alaska, United, Delta and others. Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers explain what's driving this interest, and what it means for future Boeing sales.

Reach top leadership and decision-makers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Boeing's 787-9 has been the sexy airplane in the Dreamliner lineup until now, with the 787-10 occupying a smaller niche. But more recently, the 787-10 has excited Alaska, United, Delta and others. Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers explain what's driving this interest, and what it means for future Boeing sales.

Reach top leadership and decision-makers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-18550444 Thu, 22 Jan 2026 08:00:00 -0800 1452 82 full false ATR Bets on JSX ATR Bets on JSX ATR has built an aircraft that should interest U.S. airlines because of its low relative operating costs on short routes. But with larger airlines unwilling to take a chance on a turboprop, ATR is hoping public charter operator JSX will change the market. JSX is testing ATR-42s from Santa Monica, and if it works, it may add more. Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers recently took a ride on the first JSX turboprop and spoke with the CEOs of JSX and ATR to learn more about this partnership. 

Reach top leadership and decision-makers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.


]]> ATR has built an aircraft that should interest U.S. airlines because of its low relative operating costs on short routes. But with larger airlines unwilling to take a chance on a turboprop, ATR is hoping public charter operator JSX will change the market. JSX is testing ATR-42s from Santa Monica, and if it works, it may add more. Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers recently took a ride on the first JSX turboprop and spoke with the CEOs of JSX and ATR to learn more about this partnership. 

Reach top leadership and decision-makers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.


]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-18516828 Thu, 15 Jan 2026 16:00:00 -0800 2003 81 full false American Remakes Its Schedule American Remakes Its Schedule Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers break down six notable network changes that American recently announced, including changing its bank structure at DFW, going big in Chicago, putting more premium-heavy planes into rotation, and more.

Reach top leadership and decision-makers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers break down six notable network changes that American recently announced, including changing its bank structure at DFW, going big in Chicago, putting more premium-heavy planes into rotation, and more.

Reach top leadership and decision-makers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-18475615 Thu, 08 Jan 2026 09:00:00 -0800 1690 80 full false Revenue Management 201 Revenue Management 201 Brett Snyder offers a more advanced (and less time-consuming) lesson on revenue management — in response to the recent Airlines Confidential episode — in the final episode of 2025.

Thank you for listening to The Air Show this year. Your company's support and sponsorship makes this podcast possible. To learn more about our rates and our very targeted audience, please email graham@bullpenstrategy.com.

]]> Brett Snyder offers a more advanced (and less time-consuming) lesson on revenue management — in response to the recent Airlines Confidential episode — in the final episode of 2025.

Thank you for listening to The Air Show this year. Your company's support and sponsorship makes this podcast possible. To learn more about our rates and our very targeted audience, please email graham@bullpenstrategy.com.

]]> Buzzsprout-18382418 Fri, 19 Dec 2025 02:00:00 -0800 1546 full false Condor CEO shows his stripes Condor CEO shows his stripes Condor is one of Europe's only remaining independent long-haul airlines. It may not stay that way for long. Brian Sumers and Jon Ostrower spoke to Condor CEO Peter Gerber about the carrier's path forward now that its majority shareholder wants to pursue "strategic options." Another airline, perhaps from the Middle East, might want to take a stake in Condor, Gerber tells Ostrower and Sumers. Gerber also discusses Condor's unique model, its robust growth strategy, and its sometimes feisty feud with Lufthansa.

Reach top leadership and decisionmakers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Condor is one of Europe's only remaining independent long-haul airlines. It may not stay that way for long. Brian Sumers and Jon Ostrower spoke to Condor CEO Peter Gerber about the carrier's path forward now that its majority shareholder wants to pursue "strategic options." Another airline, perhaps from the Middle East, might want to take a stake in Condor, Gerber tells Ostrower and Sumers. Gerber also discusses Condor's unique model, its robust growth strategy, and its sometimes feisty feud with Lufthansa.

Reach top leadership and decisionmakers at airlines around the world by sponsoring The Air Show. We are currently booking campaigns for 2026. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-18334803 Thu, 11 Dec 2025 10:00:00 -0800 2051 full false The essential Dubai Airshow recap The essential Dubai Airshow recap Jon Ostrower is back from Dubai Airshow with news and highlights to share with Brett Snyder, plus listener feedback from our recent episode about Delta Airlines.

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Jon Ostrower is back from Dubai Airshow with news and highlights to share with Brett Snyder, plus listener feedback from our recent episode about Delta Airlines.

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-18307332 Sat, 06 Dec 2025 03:00:00 -0800 1594 full false What's wrong with Delta, part 1 What's wrong with Delta, part 1 A listener wrote to us: "I'm a United employee, so I do enjoy hearing about how much everyone except UA and DL sucks. That said, a more challenging series of episodes might be 'what's wrong with DL or UA'...so tell us where you think we suck, and you might as well do a similar episode for the other two airlines that are doing well." This week: Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder do just that, for Delta.

We would like to thank SES for sponsoring The Air Show.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> A listener wrote to us: "I'm a United employee, so I do enjoy hearing about how much everyone except UA and DL sucks. That said, a more challenging series of episodes might be 'what's wrong with DL or UA'...so tell us where you think we suck, and you might as well do a similar episode for the other two airlines that are doing well." This week: Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder do just that, for Delta.

We would like to thank SES for sponsoring The Air Show.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-18226640 Thu, 20 Nov 2025 12:00:00 -0800 2145 full false Airlines cope with FAA chaos + we take your questions Airlines cope with FAA chaos + we take your questions Brett Snyder and Jon Ostrower talk about the DOT and FAA ordering airlines to cut flights and the response from the airlines and the teams of people (listeners to this podcast) who are helping us all through it. They also respond to questions and comments from listeners about our recent episodes on American Airlines, the regional jet landscape, slot wars at O'Hare, and more.

We would like to thank SES for sponsoring The Air Show.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Brett Snyder and Jon Ostrower talk about the DOT and FAA ordering airlines to cut flights and the response from the airlines and the teams of people (listeners to this podcast) who are helping us all through it. They also respond to questions and comments from listeners about our recent episodes on American Airlines, the regional jet landscape, slot wars at O'Hare, and more.

We would like to thank SES for sponsoring The Air Show.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-18173032 Tue, 11 Nov 2025 12:00:00 -0800 1581 full false Alaska's shifting priorities Alaska's shifting priorities Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers, and Brett Snyder check in on Alaska Airlines' post-merger strategy, its network changes and new attention for San Diego and Portland, and the outlook for its new Atmos program.

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers, and Brett Snyder check in on Alaska Airlines' post-merger strategy, its network changes and new attention for San Diego and Portland, and the outlook for its new Atmos program.

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-18142490 Thu, 06 Nov 2025 02:00:00 -0800 1830 full false What’s wrong with American Airlines, part 3/x What’s wrong with American Airlines, part 3/x Jon Ostrower, Brett Snyder, and Brian Sumers finish their three-part series on American by talking through the airline's leadership issues. Leadership is one of the biggest issues facing American today, and they get into the weeds on what would help this airline to fly high again.

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Jon Ostrower, Brett Snyder, and Brian Sumers finish their three-part series on American by talking through the airline's leadership issues. Leadership is one of the biggest issues facing American today, and they get into the weeds on what would help this airline to fly high again.

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-18106509 Thu, 30 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0700 2256 full false Sir Tim Clark's strategic leadership at Emirates Sir Tim Clark's strategic leadership at Emirates Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers interview Emirates president Sir Tim Clark about his long career at the airline, including key decisions about aircraft and cabin design, and the challenges the airline faces today.

We would like to thank Dohop for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers interview Emirates president Sir Tim Clark about his long career at the airline, including key decisions about aircraft and cabin design, and the challenges the airline faces today.

We would like to thank Dohop for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-18059870 Thu, 23 Oct 2025 04:00:00 -0700 2774 full false (J)on the road again (J)on the road again Jon Ostrower updates Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers on some recent developments in the aviation space: Airbus's A220-500, Avelo's deal with Embraer, GE Aerospace's efforts to improve engine durability (and address known issues), and shiny, new, techy highlights from the UP Summit.

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Jon Ostrower updates Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers on some recent developments in the aviation space: Airbus's A220-500, Avelo's deal with Embraer, GE Aerospace's efforts to improve engine durability (and address known issues), and shiny, new, techy highlights from the UP Summit.

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-17990412 Fri, 10 Oct 2025 11:00:00 -0700 1732 full false The Transatlantic Evolution The Transatlantic Evolution Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder discuss how the expansion of transatlantic joint ventures has affected the U.S.-to-Europe market. Consumers now have far more choices than ever before, as airlines are operating more flights than at any time in history. But with essentially just three groups setting the fares on transatlantic routes, Sumers and Snyder ask: Is the current paradigm a good one?

If you would like our audience of airline executives and decision-makers to know about your company, please get in touch with us about sponsorship opportunities on The Air Show. 

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to learn more.



]]> Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder discuss how the expansion of transatlantic joint ventures has affected the U.S.-to-Europe market. Consumers now have far more choices than ever before, as airlines are operating more flights than at any time in history. But with essentially just three groups setting the fares on transatlantic routes, Sumers and Snyder ask: Is the current paradigm a good one?

If you would like our audience of airline executives and decision-makers to know about your company, please get in touch with us about sponsorship opportunities on The Air Show. 

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to learn more.



]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-17943691 Thu, 02 Oct 2025 12:00:00 -0700 1947 full false What's wrong with American Airlines, part 2/x What's wrong with American Airlines, part 2/x We continue our series focusing on American Airlines, and this episode is about the airline's brand. Thank you to all our listeners who sent in comments, feedback and questions from our first episode about American Airlines, and please keep your messages coming. Get in touch with us (anonymously) at www.theairshowpodcast.com.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and SES for supporting The Air Show.

]]> We continue our series focusing on American Airlines, and this episode is about the airline's brand. Thank you to all our listeners who sent in comments, feedback and questions from our first episode about American Airlines, and please keep your messages coming. Get in touch with us (anonymously) at www.theairshowpodcast.com.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and SES for supporting The Air Show.

]]> Buzzsprout-17907010 Thu, 25 Sep 2025 17:00:00 -0700 1919 full false Sun Country's CEO on the Future of Ultra-Low-Cost Carriers Sun Country's CEO on the Future of Ultra-Low-Cost Carriers Jude Bricker, the CEO of Sun Country Airlines, joins Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder at the APEX Global EXPO 2025 in Long Beach to talk about Spirit Airlines’ bankruptcy, the future of ultra-low-cost carriers in the US, and why Sun Country’s variable capacity model gives it an edge. 

We would like to thank Plusgrade and SES for supporting The Air Show.

If you would like our audience of airline executives and decision-makers to know about your company, please get in touch with us about sponsorship opportunities on The Air Show. 

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Jude Bricker, the CEO of Sun Country Airlines, joins Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder at the APEX Global EXPO 2025 in Long Beach to talk about Spirit Airlines’ bankruptcy, the future of ultra-low-cost carriers in the US, and why Sun Country’s variable capacity model gives it an edge. 

We would like to thank Plusgrade and SES for supporting The Air Show.

If you would like our audience of airline executives and decision-makers to know about your company, please get in touch with us about sponsorship opportunities on The Air Show. 

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-17834522 Wed, 17 Sep 2025 05:00:00 -0700 2455 full false Spirit goes back to bankruptcy Spirit goes back to bankruptcy Once again, Spirit Airlines has filed for bankruptcy. Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers talk about the challenges Spirit will face, even if it dutifully follows its new plan. It's a tough time to be a ULCC.

If you would like our audience of airline executives and decision-makers to know about your company, please get in touch with us about sponsorship opportunities on The Air Show. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com.

]]> Once again, Spirit Airlines has filed for bankruptcy. Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers talk about the challenges Spirit will face, even if it dutifully follows its new plan. It's a tough time to be a ULCC.

If you would like our audience of airline executives and decision-makers to know about your company, please get in touch with us about sponsorship opportunities on The Air Show. Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-17827768 Thu, 11 Sep 2025 16:00:00 -0700 1761 full false What's wrong with American Airlines, part 1/x What's wrong with American Airlines, part 1/x It's time to start looking under the hood at American Airlines. As promised before our summer break, Jon Ostrower, Brett Snyder, and Brian Sumers are starting with a detailed analysis of American's fleet and network. When it comes to American, do you have other areas in mind (besides brand) or questions we should address in future episodes? Get in touch with us (anonymously) at www.theairshowpodcast.com.

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

]]> It's time to start looking under the hood at American Airlines. As promised before our summer break, Jon Ostrower, Brett Snyder, and Brian Sumers are starting with a detailed analysis of American's fleet and network. When it comes to American, do you have other areas in mind (besides brand) or questions we should address in future episodes? Get in touch with us (anonymously) at www.theairshowpodcast.com.

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

]]> Buzzsprout-17791831 Thu, 04 Sep 2025 14:00:00 -0700 2133 full false Alaska's global premium plan takes shape Alaska's global premium plan takes shape With network changes, new routes and new "brand expressions," Alaska Airlines is starting to solidify its plan to transform into a global airline. Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder discuss Alaska's news, its increasingly complex fleet, and also what these transformative steps could mean for Alaska's home market (Seattle) and nearest competitor there (Delta).

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> With network changes, new routes and new "brand expressions," Alaska Airlines is starting to solidify its plan to transform into a global airline. Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder discuss Alaska's news, its increasingly complex fleet, and also what these transformative steps could mean for Alaska's home market (Seattle) and nearest competitor there (Delta).

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-17671666 Thu, 14 Aug 2025 10:00:00 -0700 1766 full false Checking in on Southwest Checking in on Southwest Southwest is in the midst of a transformation. Brian Sumers, Jon Ostrower, and Brett Snyder discuss how it’s going so far. It was a rough second quarter but at least one of the hosts is unusually optimistic about the airline’s future.

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Southwest is in the midst of a transformation. Brian Sumers, Jon Ostrower, and Brett Snyder discuss how it’s going so far. It was a rough second quarter but at least one of the hosts is unusually optimistic about the airline’s future.

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-17627021 Thu, 07 Aug 2025 02:00:00 -0700 1698 full false Flyadeal’s CEO and the future of low cost Flyadeal’s CEO and the future of low cost Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers welcome Steven Greenway, CEO of Saudi Arabia’s low-cost carrier Flyadeal, for a primer on Saudi aviation, the airline’s international ambitions amid a geopolitical shift for Saudi Arabia on the world’s stage, and how its all-Airbus fleet is performing in the desert heat.

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers welcome Steven Greenway, CEO of Saudi Arabia’s low-cost carrier Flyadeal, for a primer on Saudi aviation, the airline’s international ambitions amid a geopolitical shift for Saudi Arabia on the world’s stage, and how its all-Airbus fleet is performing in the desert heat.

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-17594756 Thu, 31 Jul 2025 10:00:00 -0700 2318 full false Delta's being bold Delta's being bold Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers discuss Delta’s new routes from Los Angeles to Hong Kong and Chicago, planned for next June. Is this…all about United?

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers discuss Delta’s new routes from Los Angeles to Hong Kong and Chicago, planned for next June. Is this…all about United?

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-17558192 Thu, 24 Jul 2025 09:00:00 -0700 1705 full false The latest on the Air India crash The latest on the Air India crash Jon Ostrower, Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers discuss what is known — and unknown — after the release of the preliminary report on the fatal Air India Boeing 787 crash.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Jon Ostrower, Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers discuss what is known — and unknown — after the release of the preliminary report on the fatal Air India Boeing 787 crash.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-17523060 Fri, 18 Jul 2025 02:00:00 -0700 1284 full false A very geopolitical air show A very geopolitical air show Jon Ostrower talks with Brian Sumers about this year's Paris Air Show, including the new "stretched" A220, ATR's strategic move into the U.S. market with JSX, LOT's big A220 order, and how the Air India Dreamliner accident — and how information-scarce the ensuing weeks have been — changed the event this year.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Intelsat for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Jon Ostrower talks with Brian Sumers about this year's Paris Air Show, including the new "stretched" A220, ATR's strategic move into the U.S. market with JSX, LOT's big A220 order, and how the Air India Dreamliner accident — and how information-scarce the ensuing weeks have been — changed the event this year.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Intelsat for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-17397339 Wed, 25 Jun 2025 09:00:00 -0700 1553 full false Boeing looks ahead (with special guest Darren Hulst) Boeing looks ahead (with special guest Darren Hulst) Darren Hulst, Boeing's vice president of commercial marketing, joins Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder on this episode to talk about the company's 20-year market outlook for commercial aircraft. This year's CMO — released Saturday in the United States — forecasts 43,600 new airplanes from 2025 to 2044. Darren gets into the details about how his team formulates the prediction and what they're watching in the industry, in emerging markets, in geopolitics, and (most importantly) global GDP growth. NOTE: This episode was recorded before the accident aboard Air India 171.

We would like to thank Pittsburgh International Airport and Intelsat for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Darren Hulst, Boeing's vice president of commercial marketing, joins Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder on this episode to talk about the company's 20-year market outlook for commercial aircraft. This year's CMO — released Saturday in the United States — forecasts 43,600 new airplanes from 2025 to 2044. Darren gets into the details about how his team formulates the prediction and what they're watching in the industry, in emerging markets, in geopolitics, and (most importantly) global GDP growth. NOTE: This episode was recorded before the accident aboard Air India 171.

We would like to thank Pittsburgh International Airport and Intelsat for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-17326477 Sat, 14 Jun 2025 15:00:00 -0700 2490 full false The JetBlue-United partnership says a lot about the industry The JetBlue-United partnership says a lot about the industry It's been a few weeks since JetBlue and United announced their partnership, and Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder have some analysis about what it says about the rest of the industry. The short version: United looks good, JetBlue can't lose, Delta looks dismissive, and American still looks like it lost out. Brett and Brian get into the details on this episode.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Intelsat for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> It's been a few weeks since JetBlue and United announced their partnership, and Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder have some analysis about what it says about the rest of the industry. The short version: United looks good, JetBlue can't lose, Delta looks dismissive, and American still looks like it lost out. Brett and Brian get into the details on this episode.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Intelsat for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-17322069 Wed, 11 Jun 2025 16:00:00 -0700 1609 full false JetZero has potential JetZero has potential Will the next major competitor to Boeing and Airbus be JetZero and its blended wing passenger airplane? Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder talk about JetZero's Z4 design, which aims to offer significant fuel efficiency gains over traditional tube-and-wing aircraft, and United Airlines' investment in the company. Like other companies seeking to develop new aircraft and technology, funding is a big headwind. Find photos and more information on the Z4 on Cranky Flier and The Air Current.

We would like to thank Pittsburgh International Airport for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Will the next major competitor to Boeing and Airbus be JetZero and its blended wing passenger airplane? Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder talk about JetZero's Z4 design, which aims to offer significant fuel efficiency gains over traditional tube-and-wing aircraft, and United Airlines' investment in the company. Like other companies seeking to develop new aircraft and technology, funding is a big headwind. Find photos and more information on the Z4 on Cranky Flier and The Air Current.

We would like to thank Pittsburgh International Airport for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-17288657 Thu, 05 Jun 2025 11:00:00 -0700 1856 full false Michael O'Leary knows what the %$# he's doing Michael O'Leary knows what the %$# he's doing This week, Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers discuss Ryanair's recent financial performance and its chief executive's extremely disciplined focus on its growth and cost control strategies — and his colorful dismissals of anything in the way of its goals. (Please be advised this episode contains bleeped vulgarities that are direct quotes, not commentary from the hosts.)

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> This week, Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers discuss Ryanair's recent financial performance and its chief executive's extremely disciplined focus on its growth and cost control strategies — and his colorful dismissals of anything in the way of its goals. (Please be advised this episode contains bleeped vulgarities that are direct quotes, not commentary from the hosts.)

We would like to thank Plusgrade for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-17249375 Thu, 29 May 2025 13:00:00 -0700 1645 full false What's next for U.S. regionals What's next for U.S. regionals With Mesa set to merge into Republic, Brian Sumers, Jon Ostrower, and Brett Snyder look at what's coming for a shrinking industry. They ask whether mainline airlines still need so many regional partners now that E175s and CRJs are much more expensive to operate than ever, and they discuss whether there's any new aircraft technology coming that might disrupt the regional industry.

We would like to thank Pittsburgh International Airport and TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> With Mesa set to merge into Republic, Brian Sumers, Jon Ostrower, and Brett Snyder look at what's coming for a shrinking industry. They ask whether mainline airlines still need so many regional partners now that E175s and CRJs are much more expensive to operate than ever, and they discuss whether there's any new aircraft technology coming that might disrupt the regional industry.

We would like to thank Pittsburgh International Airport and TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-17210857 Thu, 22 May 2025 11:00:00 -0700 1992 full false Caviar, ottomans, and more premium inventions Caviar, ottomans, and more premium inventions This episode is about the finer things. Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder discuss the ever-escalating race to premium, including United's forthcoming changes to its premium international service, and Delta and American's investments in and strategies for their premium offerings.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.




]]> This episode is about the finer things. Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder discuss the ever-escalating race to premium, including United's forthcoming changes to its premium international service, and Delta and American's investments in and strategies for their premium offerings.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.




]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-17167826 Thu, 15 May 2025 07:00:00 -0700 1930 full false A Newark state of mind A Newark state of mind This week, Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder discuss EWR's air traffic control staffing and equipment issues, and the decision to relocate operations to Pennsylvania with special guest Will Guisbond from The Air Current. Then, Brett and Jon talk about the potential partnership between JetBlue and United Airlines, driven by JetBlue's need for a domestic partner and United's desire to re-enter JFK.

We would like to thank TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> This week, Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder discuss EWR's air traffic control staffing and equipment issues, and the decision to relocate operations to Pennsylvania with special guest Will Guisbond from The Air Current. Then, Brett and Jon talk about the potential partnership between JetBlue and United Airlines, driven by JetBlue's need for a domestic partner and United's desire to re-enter JFK.

We would like to thank TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-17123844 Thu, 08 May 2025 10:00:00 -0700 1824 full false What you need to know about Boeing, tariffs and Chinese aviation What you need to know about Boeing, tariffs and Chinese aviation Impacts from the trade war with China are landing at Boeing and in U.S. aviation more broadly. Due to high tariffs, Chinese airlines are declining to take deliveries of Boeing aircraft — as many as 50 planes destined for China this year will need to be re-marketed to new buyers. But that's just the beginning of it, as Jon Ostrower explains. China's long-term goal is to be self-sufficient in aerospace, with projects like the C919 and C929. As the geopolitical winds shift, it may look to Embraer as a potential partner rather than Boeing and Airbus.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Rokt for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Impacts from the trade war with China are landing at Boeing and in U.S. aviation more broadly. Due to high tariffs, Chinese airlines are declining to take deliveries of Boeing aircraft — as many as 50 planes destined for China this year will need to be re-marketed to new buyers. But that's just the beginning of it, as Jon Ostrower explains. China's long-term goal is to be self-sufficient in aerospace, with projects like the C919 and C929. As the geopolitical winds shift, it may look to Embraer as a potential partner rather than Boeing and Airbus.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Rokt for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-17078868 Thu, 01 May 2025 09:00:00 -0700 1670 full false Are Spirit and Sun Country a Match? Are Spirit and Sun Country a Match? Brett Snyder has been watching Spirit's network strategy closely, and this week he floats the idea that Spirit is not only becoming more like Sun Country but it could benefit from joining forces with the airline.  Brian Sumers, however, thinks this is ridiculous.  Come join them and Jon Ostrower as they float statistics in a very... spirited... debate.


We would like to thank Rokt for supporting The Air Show.


Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.


]]> Brett Snyder has been watching Spirit's network strategy closely, and this week he floats the idea that Spirit is not only becoming more like Sun Country but it could benefit from joining forces with the airline.  Brian Sumers, however, thinks this is ridiculous.  Come join them and Jon Ostrower as they float statistics in a very... spirited... debate.


We would like to thank Rokt for supporting The Air Show.


Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.


]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-17040181 Thu, 24 Apr 2025 17:00:00 -0700 1597 full false Some China news, United's earnings, and your questions Some China news, United's earnings, and your questions Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers talk about United's earnings call, and the challenges surfacing for Boeing now with delivering aircraft to Chinese airlines. Plus: Brian and Jon answer your questions about ultra-long-haul flying, OEM's commitment to sustainability, and where Avelo Airlines is "cooked."

We would like to thank Intelsat for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers talk about United's earnings call, and the challenges surfacing for Boeing now with delivering aircraft to Chinese airlines. Plus: Brian and Jon answer your questions about ultra-long-haul flying, OEM's commitment to sustainability, and where Avelo Airlines is "cooked."

We would like to thank Intelsat for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-16998988 Fri, 18 Apr 2025 09:00:00 -0700 1818 full false Uncertainty reigns and this industry feels the pain Uncertainty reigns and this industry feels the pain With economic uncertainty casting a shadow over the U.S. economy, Brian Sumers, Brett Snyder, and Jon Ostrower dive into the impact this will have on both the aircraft manufacturers and the airlines themselves. (Spoiler alert: it's not good news.)

We would like to thank Intelsat for supporting The Air Show.

]]> With economic uncertainty casting a shadow over the U.S. economy, Brian Sumers, Brett Snyder, and Jon Ostrower dive into the impact this will have on both the aircraft manufacturers and the airlines themselves. (Spoiler alert: it's not good news.)

We would like to thank Intelsat for supporting The Air Show.

]]> Buzzsprout-16955501 Thu, 10 Apr 2025 16:00:00 -0700 1597 full false The homework years The homework years Jon Ostrower brings the latest news from Airbus’s recent summit in Toulouse: planned innovations in aircraft, efficiency and sustainability, despite an increasingly fragmented global economic and political world. Ostrower tells Brett Snyder the next decade will be “the homework years” — when a lot of work gets done and technology developed to inform a more productive future. And in the U.S., as Boeing continues its push to reshape its culture and industrial operation, there are early signs of progress.

We would like to thank Rokt and Intelsat for supporting The Air Show.

]]> Jon Ostrower brings the latest news from Airbus’s recent summit in Toulouse: planned innovations in aircraft, efficiency and sustainability, despite an increasingly fragmented global economic and political world. Ostrower tells Brett Snyder the next decade will be “the homework years” — when a lot of work gets done and technology developed to inform a more productive future. And in the U.S., as Boeing continues its push to reshape its culture and industrial operation, there are early signs of progress.

We would like to thank Rokt and Intelsat for supporting The Air Show.

]]> Buzzsprout-16912215 Thu, 03 Apr 2025 10:00:00 -0700 1707 full false What's certain is uncertainty What's certain is uncertainty Amid economic and political uncertainty in North America, everyone is trying to read the tea leaves, memes and booking data to figure out what's going on, and that includes the leadership of Canadian and Mexican airlines. Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers talk about what executives are saying and doing about transborder flying in North America, going into the summer season and looking ahead to the '25-26 sun season.

We would like to thank Rokt and TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Amid economic and political uncertainty in North America, everyone is trying to read the tea leaves, memes and booking data to figure out what's going on, and that includes the leadership of Canadian and Mexican airlines. Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers talk about what executives are saying and doing about transborder flying in North America, going into the summer season and looking ahead to the '25-26 sun season.

We would like to thank Rokt and TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-16870819 Thu, 27 Mar 2025 11:00:00 -0700 1654 full false The next leader of the FAA + Spirit's growing debt The next leader of the FAA + Spirit's growing debt This week, Brett Snyder, Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers discuss President Trump's pick for FAA administrator: Bryan Bedford, CEO of Republic Airways. They also discuss Spirit Airlines' turnaround plan as it emerges from four months of bankruptcy protection, and what it did (and did not) accomplish during that period.

We would like to thank TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> This week, Brett Snyder, Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers discuss President Trump's pick for FAA administrator: Bryan Bedford, CEO of Republic Airways. They also discuss Spirit Airlines' turnaround plan as it emerges from four months of bankruptcy protection, and what it did (and did not) accomplish during that period.

We would like to thank TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-16835834 Fri, 21 Mar 2025 10:00:00 -0700 1721 full false Demand is softening Demand is softening Amid uncertainty in the U.S. economy and political climate, airlines say they're seeing softness in domestic demand. How bad is it? Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder followed the J.P. Morgan Industrials conference this week and they discuss whether airlines are taking this seriously enough or whether they are in denial, and whether Southwest has any real strategy, or whether it's just coasting on its reputation.

We would like to thank TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Amid uncertainty in the U.S. economy and political climate, airlines say they're seeing softness in domestic demand. How bad is it? Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder followed the J.P. Morgan Industrials conference this week and they discuss whether airlines are taking this seriously enough or whether they are in denial, and whether Southwest has any real strategy, or whether it's just coasting on its reputation.

We would like to thank TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-16783524 Thu, 13 Mar 2025 09:00:00 -0700 1981 full false It's sexy to be nominated at the CNAs It's sexy to be nominated at the CNAs Brett Snyder's annual Cranky Network Awards is the event of the year and the place to be for the airline industry professionals that some people (possibly his co-hosts on this podcast) think are the nerdiest of the aviation nerds: network planners. In all seriousness (well, not all...), Brian Sumers, Jon Ostrower and Brett talk about the winners, what makes routes sexy or not, and the behind-the-scenes (and grooming routines) of this year's prestigious bash.

We would like to thank TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Brett Snyder's annual Cranky Network Awards is the event of the year and the place to be for the airline industry professionals that some people (possibly his co-hosts on this podcast) think are the nerdiest of the aviation nerds: network planners. In all seriousness (well, not all...), Brian Sumers, Jon Ostrower and Brett talk about the winners, what makes routes sexy or not, and the behind-the-scenes (and grooming routines) of this year's prestigious bash.

We would like to thank TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-16743945 Thu, 06 Mar 2025 17:00:00 -0800 1598 full false Change is hard Change is hard Southwest Airlines is in a major transition — layoffs, an activist investor, and a changing product. Of course, it's an especially major transition for this airline because of its conservative culture, strategy, and history. Brett Snyder, Brian Sumers and Jon Ostrower debate the impact of Elliott Management's involvement, former CEO Gary Kelly's legacy, and the potential for new leadership to drive change.

We would like to thank TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Southwest Airlines is in a major transition — layoffs, an activist investor, and a changing product. Of course, it's an especially major transition for this airline because of its conservative culture, strategy, and history. Brett Snyder, Brian Sumers and Jon Ostrower debate the impact of Elliott Management's involvement, former CEO Gary Kelly's legacy, and the potential for new leadership to drive change.

We would like to thank TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-16699191 Wed, 26 Feb 2025 13:00:00 -0800 2013 full false United Makes a Move to Dominate Chicago United Makes a Move to Dominate Chicago United thinks it has found a way to once and for all make the airline Chicago's dominant player, but American is still standing in the way. Jon and Brett talk about exactly what United has found, and then discuss what American's options are.  It's going to be a roller coaster of a decade at O'Hare.


We would like to thank TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.


Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.


]]> United thinks it has found a way to once and for all make the airline Chicago's dominant player, but American is still standing in the way. Jon and Brett talk about exactly what United has found, and then discuss what American's options are.  It's going to be a roller coaster of a decade at O'Hare.


We would like to thank TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.


Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.


]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-16665055 Thu, 20 Feb 2025 13:00:00 -0800 1365 full false Now Boom moves on to the hard part Now Boom moves on to the hard part Brian Sumers, Brett Snyder, and Jon Ostrower discuss Boom's recent supersonic test flights — a big achievement for the start-up — and the challenges ahead. Is there a market for a return to supersonic commercial flight? Is there enough money to develop an airliner? Can Boom develop its own engine?

We would like to thank TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Brian Sumers, Brett Snyder, and Jon Ostrower discuss Boom's recent supersonic test flights — a big achievement for the start-up — and the challenges ahead. Is there a market for a return to supersonic commercial flight? Is there enough money to develop an airliner? Can Boom develop its own engine?

We would like to thank TCG Digital for supporting The Air Show.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-16617281 Thu, 13 Feb 2025 13:00:00 -0800 1954 full false An American tragedy on the Potomac An American tragedy on the Potomac Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder discuss the tragic collision of American Eagle flight 5342 and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter near Washington National Airport last week, ending an unprecedented era of US aviation safety. Jon Ostrower talks through what is known about the incident, what is ahead as the NTSB investigates, and the potential impacts of speculation  — on social media and by officials — in shaping public perception after disasters like this.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us, and thank you for listening to the show.

]]> Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder discuss the tragic collision of American Eagle flight 5342 and a US Army Black Hawk helicopter near Washington National Airport last week, ending an unprecedented era of US aviation safety. Jon Ostrower talks through what is known about the incident, what is ahead as the NTSB investigates, and the potential impacts of speculation  — on social media and by officials — in shaping public perception after disasters like this.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us, and thank you for listening to the show.

]]> Buzzsprout-16559193 Tue, 04 Feb 2025 03:00:00 -0800 1706 full false JetBlue turns to connections JetBlue turns to connections Brian Sumers puts Brett Snyder on the hot seat on a bunch of things going on at US airlines this month. They discuss schedule changes JetBlue made in Boston and New York, and rapid-fire questions about American and Chicago, Hawaiian and its 787s, new capacity in Anchorage, and the Delta show at CES.

We would like to thank TCG Digital and Juliett Alpha for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Brian Sumers puts Brett Snyder on the hot seat on a bunch of things going on at US airlines this month. They discuss schedule changes JetBlue made in Boston and New York, and rapid-fire questions about American and Chicago, Hawaiian and its 787s, new capacity in Anchorage, and the Delta show at CES.

We would like to thank TCG Digital and Juliett Alpha for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-16491102 Thu, 23 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0800 1857 full false Spirit's next act Spirit's next act As it plans to emerge from bankruptcy, America's first ULCC is trying to reinvent itself as a more upscale airline with higher costs. Spirit Airlines says it needs to move upmarket to attract new customers who want a better product. But hosts Brian Sumers, Jon Ostrower, and Brett Snyder are skeptical. They wonder if this is just a short pit stop on the way to consolidation.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us, and thank you for listening to the show.

]]> As it plans to emerge from bankruptcy, America's first ULCC is trying to reinvent itself as a more upscale airline with higher costs. Spirit Airlines says it needs to move upmarket to attract new customers who want a better product. But hosts Brian Sumers, Jon Ostrower, and Brett Snyder are skeptical. They wonder if this is just a short pit stop on the way to consolidation.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us, and thank you for listening to the show.

]]> Buzzsprout-16456400 Fri, 17 Jan 2025 10:00:00 -0800 1695 full false This is not a predictions episode This is not a predictions episode It's our final episode of 2024! Brett Snyder, Brian Sumers and Jon Ostrower chat about what 2025 may bring: mergers and a new regulatory environment? a handoff at the FAA? assigned seating on an airline previously opposed to assigned seating? Plus: The Air Show's top interview requests for 2025.

We would like to thank Juliett Alpha for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us, and thank you for listening to the show.

]]> It's our final episode of 2024! Brett Snyder, Brian Sumers and Jon Ostrower chat about what 2025 may bring: mergers and a new regulatory environment? a handoff at the FAA? assigned seating on an airline previously opposed to assigned seating? Plus: The Air Show's top interview requests for 2025.

We would like to thank Juliett Alpha for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us, and thank you for listening to the show.

]]> Buzzsprout-16309779 Thu, 19 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0800 1795 full false Ben Minicucci on Alaska's global ambitions Ben Minicucci on Alaska's global ambitions Ben Minicucci joins the show to discuss Alaska's big news today — and then some. Minicucci talks about the airline's aggressive growth plans, which it says target $1 billion in incremental profits by 2027. Those plans include new international routes to Asia next year, building up and defending its Seattle hub, expanding premium and loyalty offerings, and more.

We would like to thank Accelya for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Ben Minicucci joins the show to discuss Alaska's big news today — and then some. Minicucci talks about the airline's aggressive growth plans, which it says target $1 billion in incremental profits by 2027. Those plans include new international routes to Asia next year, building up and defending its Seattle hub, expanding premium and loyalty offerings, and more.

We would like to thank Accelya for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-16250264 Tue, 10 Dec 2024 03:00:00 -0800 3028 full false Is 'durable and differentiated' enough for Delta? Is 'durable and differentiated' enough for Delta? The top U.S.-based airline continues to play it cool. Delta's execs were casual during the airline's most recent investor day — yes, Delta's targeting younger, more affluent customers and it's experimenting with A.I. for revenue management, but why overstate the possibilities? Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder talk about the state of calm, cool, confident Delta. Is it too confident? Could it use some humility, as United is motivated to overtake it?

We would like to thank Juliett Alpha for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> The top U.S.-based airline continues to play it cool. Delta's execs were casual during the airline's most recent investor day — yes, Delta's targeting younger, more affluent customers and it's experimenting with A.I. for revenue management, but why overstate the possibilities? Jon Ostrower, Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder talk about the state of calm, cool, confident Delta. Is it too confident? Could it use some humility, as United is motivated to overtake it?

We would like to thank Juliett Alpha for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-16228380 Thu, 05 Dec 2024 11:00:00 -0800 1944 full false Marty St. George on his second act at JetBlue Marty St. George on his second act at JetBlue Marty St. George joins the show this week to discuss his second stint at JetBlue, this time as president. With Brian Sumers, Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder, St. George discusses the turnaround he intends to oversee at the struggling JetBlue to improve its profitability, culture, and operations (called Jet Forward). St. George also talked about how he's evolved as a manager and decision-maker, his dream airplane and how to deal with the effects of Pratt engine issues, and more.

We would like to thank Accelya for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.



]]> Marty St. George joins the show this week to discuss his second stint at JetBlue, this time as president. With Brian Sumers, Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder, St. George discusses the turnaround he intends to oversee at the struggling JetBlue to improve its profitability, culture, and operations (called Jet Forward). St. George also talked about how he's evolved as a manager and decision-maker, his dream airplane and how to deal with the effects of Pratt engine issues, and more.

We would like to thank Accelya for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.



]]> Buzzsprout-16149776 Thu, 21 Nov 2024 14:00:00 -0800 2966 full false A321XLR - Revolution or Replacement? A321XLR - Revolution or Replacement? The A321XLR entered service with Iberia on November 14, and so begins the next generation of long-haul, narrowbody flying. Will this usher in an era of new and exciting routes or will it just end up being a 757 replacement? Brett, Brian, and Jon ponder that topic in this week's episode.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.


]]> The A321XLR entered service with Iberia on November 14, and so begins the next generation of long-haul, narrowbody flying. Will this usher in an era of new and exciting routes or will it just end up being a 757 replacement? Brett, Brian, and Jon ponder that topic in this week's episode.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.


]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-16115059 Fri, 15 Nov 2024 12:00:00 -0800 1755 full false Southwest's détente Southwest's détente Is the drama over? Is this a ceasefire? An agreement to cooperate? Brett Snyder, Brian Sumers and Jon Ostrower discuss the recent détente between Southwest Airlines and Elliott Investment Management. Elliott gained five of Southwest's 13 board seats, and the two sides agreed to table the rest of their disagreements until Valentine's Day 2026. Will Southwest fix its revenue problem by then?

We would like to thank Rokt for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Is the drama over? Is this a ceasefire? An agreement to cooperate? Brett Snyder, Brian Sumers and Jon Ostrower discuss the recent détente between Southwest Airlines and Elliott Investment Management. Elliott gained five of Southwest's 13 board seats, and the two sides agreed to table the rest of their disagreements until Valentine's Day 2026. Will Southwest fix its revenue problem by then?

We would like to thank Rokt for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-16026737 Thu, 31 Oct 2024 09:00:00 -0700 1855 full false Boeing still ain't going Boeing still ain't going The Boeing strike continues. On Wednesday, 64% of machinists rejected Boeing's negotiated proposal, extending the strike indefinitely. Earlier that day, Boeing's third-quarter earnings revealed an expected $6.2 billion loss and an official delay until 2026 of the 777X. It's not great, for really anyone. Jon Ostrower discusses the dynamics here with Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder.

We would like to thank our sponsor, Intelsat.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> The Boeing strike continues. On Wednesday, 64% of machinists rejected Boeing's negotiated proposal, extending the strike indefinitely. Earlier that day, Boeing's third-quarter earnings revealed an expected $6.2 billion loss and an official delay until 2026 of the 777X. It's not great, for really anyone. Jon Ostrower discusses the dynamics here with Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder.

We would like to thank our sponsor, Intelsat.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-15991301 Fri, 25 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0700 2040 full false United's network: PDEWs and PQ United's network: PDEWs and PQ United Airlines is making moves and announcing splashy new routes — the kind you might expect from an airline with a healthy balance sheet and an innovative network chief. And still, there were some surprise additions to United's plans. Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers discuss Patrick Quayle's approach, including the airline's out-of-the-box new routes from Newark and Tokyo Narita.

We would like to thank Rokt for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> United Airlines is making moves and announcing splashy new routes — the kind you might expect from an airline with a healthy balance sheet and an innovative network chief. And still, there were some surprise additions to United's plans. Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers discuss Patrick Quayle's approach, including the airline's out-of-the-box new routes from Newark and Tokyo Narita.

We would like to thank Rokt for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-15940263 Thu, 17 Oct 2024 02:00:00 -0700 1719 full false American and Southwest play opposites American and Southwest play opposites Brett Snyder and Jon Ostrower discuss Q2 2024 data for the domestic airline market. American Airlines faced significant challenges. Southwest, in contrast, actually did alright! This DOT data set also sheds light on the performance of new-ish ultra-low-cost carriers, Avelo and Breeze, which are privately held.

We would like to thank our sponsor, Intelsat.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Brett Snyder and Jon Ostrower discuss Q2 2024 data for the domestic airline market. American Airlines faced significant challenges. Southwest, in contrast, actually did alright! This DOT data set also sheds light on the performance of new-ish ultra-low-cost carriers, Avelo and Breeze, which are privately held.

We would like to thank our sponsor, Intelsat.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-15903712 Thu, 10 Oct 2024 10:00:00 -0700 1483 full false Southwest is ready to change Southwest is ready to change Brett Snyder recaps his trip to Dallas for Southwest Airlines' investor day, even though we already knew the news: assigned seating, expanded extra-legroom sections, and network changes, plus how Southwest is planning to improve productivity. And the big question: will all of this be enough to please Elliott Management, Southwest's activist investor?

We would like to thank our sponsors, Rokt and TCG Digital.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Brett Snyder recaps his trip to Dallas for Southwest Airlines' investor day, even though we already knew the news: assigned seating, expanded extra-legroom sections, and network changes, plus how Southwest is planning to improve productivity. And the big question: will all of this be enough to please Elliott Management, Southwest's activist investor?

We would like to thank our sponsors, Rokt and TCG Digital.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-15858356 Thu, 03 Oct 2024 02:00:00 -0700 2151 full false Alaska and Hawaiian: now what? Alaska and Hawaiian: now what? Now that the U.S. government has approved the merger, Brett Snyder, Brian Sumers, and Jon Ostrower talk (and speculate) about how Alaska might navigate the logistics of acquiring Hawaiian. Alaska has a lot of work to do to combine the airlines' fleet, loyalty programs, and network strategy. It also needs to do something highly unusual for a U.S. airline — run two full-service brands on a single operating certificate.

We would like to thank our sponsors, Intelsat and TCG Digital.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Now that the U.S. government has approved the merger, Brett Snyder, Brian Sumers, and Jon Ostrower talk (and speculate) about how Alaska might navigate the logistics of acquiring Hawaiian. Alaska has a lot of work to do to combine the airlines' fleet, loyalty programs, and network strategy. It also needs to do something highly unusual for a U.S. airline — run two full-service brands on a single operating certificate.

We would like to thank our sponsors, Intelsat and TCG Digital.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-15817101 Wed, 25 Sep 2024 13:00:00 -0700 1960 full false A strike lands at Boeing A strike lands at Boeing It was a busy week in the aviation world in the Pacific Northwest. We'll get to the Alaska-Hawaiian merger soon — this week Jon Ostrower, Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers talk about the strike by the largest group of workers at Boeing, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). The strike, the first in 16 years, affects production on the 737, 767, and 777 lines. Boeing's financial response includes a hiring freeze, travel cuts, and furloughs (and more).

We would like to thank our sponsors, Rokt and TCG Digital.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> It was a busy week in the aviation world in the Pacific Northwest. We'll get to the Alaska-Hawaiian merger soon — this week Jon Ostrower, Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers talk about the strike by the largest group of workers at Boeing, the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM). The strike, the first in 16 years, affects production on the 737, 767, and 777 lines. Boeing's financial response includes a hiring freeze, travel cuts, and furloughs (and more).

We would like to thank our sponsors, Rokt and TCG Digital.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-15781627 Thu, 19 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0700 1862 full false Frequent flyer programs on notice Frequent flyer programs on notice The U.S. Department of Transportation informed the four biggest airlines it would like more information about their frequent flyer programs because it is concerned about hidden pricing, extra fees, devaluation of rewards and miles, and reduced competition. Brian Sumers, Brett Snyder and Jon Ostrower discuss DOT's apparent interest in this crucial aspect of the airline business, the timing (and the politics) of the inquiry, and the potential for regulatory intervention.

We would like to thank our sponsors, Intelsat and TCG Digital.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> The U.S. Department of Transportation informed the four biggest airlines it would like more information about their frequent flyer programs because it is concerned about hidden pricing, extra fees, devaluation of rewards and miles, and reduced competition. Brian Sumers, Brett Snyder and Jon Ostrower discuss DOT's apparent interest in this crucial aspect of the airline business, the timing (and the politics) of the inquiry, and the potential for regulatory intervention.

We would like to thank our sponsors, Intelsat and TCG Digital.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-15741413 Thu, 12 Sep 2024 11:00:00 -0700 1955 full false The Airbus episode The Airbus episode This week Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers discuss Airbus — its history, its engineering and development strategies, and its approach toward sales. Ostrower and Sumers also explain how Airbus’ relentless desire to make its aircraft incrementally better over time has given it an advantage over Boeing (at least for now).

We would like to thank Ferrovial and TCG Digital for sponsoring The Air Show.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> This week Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers discuss Airbus — its history, its engineering and development strategies, and its approach toward sales. Ostrower and Sumers also explain how Airbus’ relentless desire to make its aircraft incrementally better over time has given it an advantage over Boeing (at least for now).

We would like to thank Ferrovial and TCG Digital for sponsoring The Air Show.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-15707179 Fri, 06 Sep 2024 09:00:00 -0700 1956 full false The Air(mail) Show The Air(mail) Show It's August and we've been on vacation recently, so our inbox is pretty stuffed with emails, feedback and questions from you. Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder read feedback from a former CEO (whose former company was the subject of a recent episode) and answer listeners' questions about the fate of ULCCs in Europe, Southwest's metal needs, exemplary C-suite behavior, and more.

We would like to thank Ferrovial and TCG Digital for sponsoring The Air Show.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> It's August and we've been on vacation recently, so our inbox is pretty stuffed with emails, feedback and questions from you. Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder read feedback from a former CEO (whose former company was the subject of a recent episode) and answer listeners' questions about the fate of ULCCs in Europe, Southwest's metal needs, exemplary C-suite behavior, and more.

We would like to thank Ferrovial and TCG Digital for sponsoring The Air Show.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-15663798 Thu, 29 Aug 2024 10:00:00 -0700 1800 full false The Great Battle of Connecticut The Great Battle of Connecticut Avelo found a good thing in New Haven and grew into Hartford.  Breeze had been in Hartford, but now it's going into New Haven. Despite these seemingly related movies, this might actually be about... JetBlue? Listen in to hear about this grand battle, and stay for the Revolutionary War history.


We would like to thank Ferrovial and TCG Digital for sponsoring The Air Show.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Avelo found a good thing in New Haven and grew into Hartford.  Breeze had been in Hartford, but now it's going into New Haven. Despite these seemingly related movies, this might actually be about... JetBlue? Listen in to hear about this grand battle, and stay for the Revolutionary War history.


We would like to thank Ferrovial and TCG Digital for sponsoring The Air Show.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-15620463 Wed, 21 Aug 2024 13:00:00 -0700 1811 full false The Air Show goes to an airshow The Air Show goes to an airshow Jon Ostrower spent time at this year's Farnborough International Airshow, and he brought back all kinds of knowledge to share. Who had the most orders (and does anyone care)? What airplane is going to be able to take off on its own? Who might very well be running Boeing by the time this episode goes live? It's all there this week. 


A programming note: This is our last episode before a two week break. We'll be back the week of August 19.


We would like to thank Ferrovial and TCG Digital for sponsoring The Air Show.


Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Jon Ostrower spent time at this year's Farnborough International Airshow, and he brought back all kinds of knowledge to share. Who had the most orders (and does anyone care)? What airplane is going to be able to take off on its own? Who might very well be running Boeing by the time this episode goes live? It's all there this week. 


A programming note: This is our last episode before a two week break. We'll be back the week of August 19.


We would like to thank Ferrovial and TCG Digital for sponsoring The Air Show.


Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-15509850 Wed, 31 Jul 2024 11:00:00 -0700 1662 full false The ULCC cycle of death The ULCC cycle of death It is not looking great for ultra-low-cost carriers based in the U.S. — especially Frontier and Spirit. Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder discuss what's making business tough for the ULCCs, a dark prediction for the sector from a premium airline's CCO, and some possible solutions for these airlines.

We would like to thank TCG Digital for sponsoring The Air Show.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> It is not looking great for ultra-low-cost carriers based in the U.S. — especially Frontier and Spirit. Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder discuss what's making business tough for the ULCCs, a dark prediction for the sector from a premium airline's CCO, and some possible solutions for these airlines.

We would like to thank TCG Digital for sponsoring The Air Show.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-15474754 Thu, 25 Jul 2024 09:00:00 -0700 1892 full false Alaska searches for light in winter Alaska searches for light in winter Alaska Airlines is on a mission to do something about its dark, dismal winters (and no, we're not just talking about this past winter's foibles). The airline has been trying to figure out a profitable winter strategy that works for its West Coast-heavy network since its very gloomy 2023 Q1. Brian Sumers, Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder discuss the new routes the airline announced this week, and what it forecasts for the U.S.'s fifth largest airline.

We would like to thank TCG Digital for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Alaska Airlines is on a mission to do something about its dark, dismal winters (and no, we're not just talking about this past winter's foibles). The airline has been trying to figure out a profitable winter strategy that works for its West Coast-heavy network since its very gloomy 2023 Q1. Brian Sumers, Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder discuss the new routes the airline announced this week, and what it forecasts for the U.S.'s fifth largest airline.

We would like to thank TCG Digital for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-15435852 Thu, 18 Jul 2024 10:00:00 -0700 1696 full false Delta is still on top Delta is still on top Delta had a strong second quarter and its executives were more talkative than usual about the state of the industry. Brian Sumers and Jon Ostrower discussed Delta's numbers, its fleet management and operations, and the issue of overcapacity in the US airline market.

We would like to thank TCG Digital for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Delta had a strong second quarter and its executives were more talkative than usual about the state of the industry. Brian Sumers and Jon Ostrower discussed Delta's numbers, its fleet management and operations, and the issue of overcapacity in the US airline market.

We would like to thank TCG Digital for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-15405287 Fri, 12 Jul 2024 12:00:00 -0700 1704 full false Can airlines learn from WestJet? Can airlines learn from WestJet? The last twelve years have been a transformative era for WestJet — management has added complexity and made strategic decisions yielding mixed results for the current business climate. But it's a more interesting and complicated story than that, as Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder discuss.

We would like to thank TCG Digital for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> The last twelve years have been a transformative era for WestJet — management has added complexity and made strategic decisions yielding mixed results for the current business climate. But it's a more interesting and complicated story than that, as Brian Sumers and Brett Snyder discuss.

We would like to thank TCG Digital for sponsoring this episode.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-15336225 Tue, 02 Jul 2024 00:00:00 -0700 1831 full false Boeing's unforced error Boeing's unforced error Jon Ostrower talks with Brett Snyder about the two days he spent at Boeing this week, touring factories and walking the line and hearing from Boeing executives...and what happened when the NTSB heard what was going on. Visit theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Jon Ostrower talks with Brett Snyder about the two days he spent at Boeing this week, touring factories and walking the line and hearing from Boeing executives...and what happened when the NTSB heard what was going on. Visit theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-15324431 Fri, 28 Jun 2024 09:00:00 -0700 1887 full false Southwest faces its biggest challenge Southwest faces its biggest challenge Weeks ago, we planned to discuss Southwest's underperformance — but so much has happened since then. Legacy-loving Southwest now has an activist investor, which bought more than 10 percent of company shares and has launched an effort to blow up the board and fire CEO Bob Jordan. Brett Snyder, Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers discuss the post-pandemic state of Southwest that likely led Elliott Investment Management to make this play for control, and the play itself. Questions, comments, or suggestions? Get in touch with us: theairshowpodcast.com


]]> Weeks ago, we planned to discuss Southwest's underperformance — but so much has happened since then. Legacy-loving Southwest now has an activist investor, which bought more than 10 percent of company shares and has launched an effort to blow up the board and fire CEO Bob Jordan. Brett Snyder, Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers discuss the post-pandemic state of Southwest that likely led Elliott Investment Management to make this play for control, and the play itself. Questions, comments, or suggestions? Get in touch with us: theairshowpodcast.com


]]> Buzzsprout-15285174 Thu, 20 Jun 2024 12:00:00 -0700 2190 full false The IATA AGM report + Ben Smith interview The IATA AGM report + Ben Smith interview Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers interview Air France-KLM CEO Ben Smith, and they catch up with Brett Snyder about this year's IATA annual general meeting — how useful it is as an observer of the industry, the elevator interactions with airline executives (the good, the bad and the very awkward), and Enrique Iglesias.

]]> Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers interview Air France-KLM CEO Ben Smith, and they catch up with Brett Snyder about this year's IATA annual general meeting — how useful it is as an observer of the industry, the elevator interactions with airline executives (the good, the bad and the very awkward), and Enrique Iglesias.

]]> Buzzsprout-15245715 Thu, 13 Jun 2024 10:00:00 -0700 2156 full false The Scott Kirby interview The Scott Kirby interview United CEO Scott Kirby joins Brian Sumers and Jon Ostrower for a wide-ranging interview from the IATA general meeting in Dubai. Kirby discussed Boeing and the duopoly of airplane manufacturers, his outlook on United's competitors and U.S.-based ULCCs, and his analysis of United's success.

We would like to thank Anuvu for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> United CEO Scott Kirby joins Brian Sumers and Jon Ostrower for a wide-ranging interview from the IATA general meeting in Dubai. Kirby discussed Boeing and the duopoly of airplane manufacturers, his outlook on United's competitors and U.S.-based ULCCs, and his analysis of United's success.

We would like to thank Anuvu for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

Questions, responses or feedback? Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-15186861 Mon, 03 Jun 2024 17:00:00 -0700 2899 full false The spectacular failure of American's commercial strategy The spectacular failure of American's commercial strategy Vasu Raja — American's chief commercial officer who remade the airline's distribution strategy and network to less-than-stellar performance — is now out of a job.  What happens next? Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers discuss Raja's ouster, the unfinished projects that will be left for his successor and CEO Robert Isom, and more.

Would you like to reach top talent at global airlines with a message on our podcast? Get in touch with us at theairshowpodcast.com.

]]> Vasu Raja — American's chief commercial officer who remade the airline's distribution strategy and network to less-than-stellar performance — is now out of a job.  What happens next? Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers discuss Raja's ouster, the unfinished projects that will be left for his successor and CEO Robert Isom, and more.

Would you like to reach top talent at global airlines with a message on our podcast? Get in touch with us at theairshowpodcast.com.

]]> Buzzsprout-15165098 Thu, 30 May 2024 10:00:00 -0700 2018 full false Searching for the new Frontier Searching for the new Frontier As cost-conscious airline passengers increasingly trade up for tickets on legacy carriers, what's a ULCC to do? Brian Sumers, Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder discuss the new strategies Frontier Airlines is adopting in the face of this trend: new fare families to match the legacy airlines, changes to its network, and its fleet strategy (and order book).

Would you like to sponsor future episodes of The Air Show? Get in touch with us here.

]]> As cost-conscious airline passengers increasingly trade up for tickets on legacy carriers, what's a ULCC to do? Brian Sumers, Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder discuss the new strategies Frontier Airlines is adopting in the face of this trend: new fare families to match the legacy airlines, changes to its network, and its fleet strategy (and order book).

Would you like to sponsor future episodes of The Air Show? Get in touch with us here.

]]> Buzzsprout-15124360 Thu, 23 May 2024 09:00:00 -0700 2113 full false What’s Next For Embraer What’s Next For Embraer The Brazilian manufacturer has a decision to make. Should it focus on what it already does well, including regional jets, small narrowbodies, and business jets? Or should it take a chance and build a bigger airplane that might compete directly with the 737 and A320 families? Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers discuss Embraer’s dilemma in this week’s episode.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Uplift for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> The Brazilian manufacturer has a decision to make. Should it focus on what it already does well, including regional jets, small narrowbodies, and business jets? Or should it take a chance and build a bigger airplane that might compete directly with the 737 and A320 families? Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers discuss Embraer’s dilemma in this week’s episode.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Uplift for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-15081145 Thu, 16 May 2024 09:00:00 -0700 1890 full false Don't call them airlines Don't call them airlines JSX and Contour have completely different business models, but they both have something in common.  They are able to take advantage of a loophole that allows them to run their operations more flexibly in terms of pilots, security, and more under Parts 135 and 380. The industry is divided on whether this is good or bad, but it has generated some real debate in Washington. Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder talk about what's happening as well as the pros and cons.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Uplift for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> JSX and Contour have completely different business models, but they both have something in common.  They are able to take advantage of a loophole that allows them to run their operations more flexibly in terms of pilots, security, and more under Parts 135 and 380. The industry is divided on whether this is good or bad, but it has generated some real debate in Washington. Jon Ostrower and Brett Snyder talk about what's happening as well as the pros and cons.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Uplift for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-15041610 Thu, 09 May 2024 13:00:00 -0700 1682 full false American's puzzlingly rigid journey to remake distribution American's puzzlingly rigid journey to remake distribution American Airlines has a bold, new strategy that forgoes managed corporate bookings for direct bookings while remaking its entire sales effort. With the first quarter over and done, how is that plan-turned-strategy working out so far? This week, Brian Sumers, Brett Snyder and Jon Ostrower discuss the first indicators of American's grand plan.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Uplift for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> American Airlines has a bold, new strategy that forgoes managed corporate bookings for direct bookings while remaking its entire sales effort. With the first quarter over and done, how is that plan-turned-strategy working out so far? This week, Brian Sumers, Brett Snyder and Jon Ostrower discuss the first indicators of American's grand plan.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Uplift for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.

]]> Buzzsprout-14998563 Thu, 02 May 2024 11:00:00 -0700 2098 full false Airlines are 'Boeing-level angry' about Pratt & Whitney Airlines are 'Boeing-level angry' about Pratt & Whitney It's not just Boeing that's causing acute headaches for airlines. Pratt & Whitney's geared turbofan engine, which has been in operation since 2016 on Airbus single-aisle aircraft, has serious issues with reliability and durability, and a seriously long MRO timeline. The engine itself is an innovation — a major leap in fuel efficiency, which will only become more necessary — but will these issues threaten Pratt & Whitney's comeback? Make airlines more risk-averse when innovation is sorely needed? Create a RASM-related silver lining? That's what Jon Ostrower, Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers discuss on this week's episode.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Uplift for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.


]]> It's not just Boeing that's causing acute headaches for airlines. Pratt & Whitney's geared turbofan engine, which has been in operation since 2016 on Airbus single-aisle aircraft, has serious issues with reliability and durability, and a seriously long MRO timeline. The engine itself is an innovation — a major leap in fuel efficiency, which will only become more necessary — but will these issues threaten Pratt & Whitney's comeback? Make airlines more risk-averse when innovation is sorely needed? Create a RASM-related silver lining? That's what Jon Ostrower, Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers discuss on this week's episode.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Uplift for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

Visit www.theairshowpodcast.com to get in touch with us.


]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-14956157 Thu, 25 Apr 2024 10:00:00 -0700 1872 full false United and Delta: a class all their own United and Delta: a class all their own Two U.S. airlines have reported earnings so far, and it's United and Delta: two airlines that increasingly have a lot in common. Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers discuss the numbers each airline reported, and what they shared about corporate travel, the summer travel season forecast, the importance of brand and reliability, and more.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Uplift for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

]]> Two U.S. airlines have reported earnings so far, and it's United and Delta: two airlines that increasingly have a lot in common. Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers discuss the numbers each airline reported, and what they shared about corporate travel, the summer travel season forecast, the importance of brand and reliability, and more.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Uplift for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-14913503 Thu, 18 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0700 1825 full false A tale of two cities A tale of two cities Or: what happened in Boston and Seattle when Delta established hubs there. Brett Snyder, Brian Sumers and Jon Ostrower discuss how Alaska defended its turf against Delta, and how JetBlue faltered when Delta expanded in Boston. The particulars of each city — their changing economies and corporate needs, their specific brand loyalty, and regional feed and fleet  — make an interesting case study.

We would like to thank Plusgrade for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

]]> Or: what happened in Boston and Seattle when Delta established hubs there. Brett Snyder, Brian Sumers and Jon Ostrower discuss how Alaska defended its turf against Delta, and how JetBlue faltered when Delta expanded in Boston. The particulars of each city — their changing economies and corporate needs, their specific brand loyalty, and regional feed and fleet  — make an interesting case study.

We would like to thank Plusgrade for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-14872803 Thu, 11 Apr 2024 12:00:00 -0700 1965 full false India rising India rising Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers discuss the current moment in Indian aviation, focusing on the two largest carriers in the market. At Air India, Campbell Wilson, a former top executive of Singapore Air, is tasked to remake the flag carrier under new private ownership. Pieter Elbers, the former CEO of KLM, now leads the very profitable and market-dominant IndiGo, despite growing pains. Brian and Jon also discuss the forces that are perhaps containing the growth of the Indian market: infrastructure, aircraft availability, and competitors in the Middle East.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Intelsat for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

]]> Jon Ostrower and Brian Sumers discuss the current moment in Indian aviation, focusing on the two largest carriers in the market. At Air India, Campbell Wilson, a former top executive of Singapore Air, is tasked to remake the flag carrier under new private ownership. Pieter Elbers, the former CEO of KLM, now leads the very profitable and market-dominant IndiGo, despite growing pains. Brian and Jon also discuss the forces that are perhaps containing the growth of the Indian market: infrastructure, aircraft availability, and competitors in the Middle East.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Intelsat for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-14828449 Thu, 04 Apr 2024 09:00:00 -0700 1965 full false The Boeing episode The Boeing episode Jon Ostrower recaps and explains a very tumultuous week at Boeing: a shake-up in its executive leadership, prompted by the leadership of four U.S. airlines deciding it was time to bypass the C-suite and ask for a meeting with Boeing's board. Jon discusses those developments and what's ahead for Boeing with Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers.
 
You can read Jon's reporting on Boeing here.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Intelsat for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

]]> Jon Ostrower recaps and explains a very tumultuous week at Boeing: a shake-up in its executive leadership, prompted by the leadership of four U.S. airlines deciding it was time to bypass the C-suite and ask for a meeting with Boeing's board. Jon discusses those developments and what's ahead for Boeing with Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers.
 
You can read Jon's reporting on Boeing here.

We would like to thank Plusgrade and Intelsat for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-14787216 Thu, 28 Mar 2024 10:00:00 -0700 1907 full false Does JetBlue have a real plan? Does JetBlue have a real plan? Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers discuss the recent moves of JetBlue and the early signs of what the airline's new leadership is planning, post-NEA and post-Spirit. Jon Ostrower joins from the road to discuss JetBlue's varied fleet.

We would like to thank Intelsat for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

]]> Brett Snyder and Brian Sumers discuss the recent moves of JetBlue and the early signs of what the airline's new leadership is planning, post-NEA and post-Spirit. Jon Ostrower joins from the road to discuss JetBlue's varied fleet.

We would like to thank Intelsat for their sponsorship of The Air Show.

]]> Shayr Media Buzzsprout-14738026 Thu, 21 Mar 2024 10:00:00 -0700 2249 full false Welcome to The Air Show Welcome to The Air Show Three top commentators/reporters on the business of aviation and airlines join forces in this new podcast. Jon Ostrower (The Air Current), Brian Sumers (The Airline Observer) and Brett Snyder (Cranky Flier) introduce themselves and this new podcast focusing on the business of the sky, and discuss how the industry has come through the pandemic.

We would like to thank Intelsat for being our launch sponsor.

]]> Three top commentators/reporters on the business of aviation and airlines join forces in this new podcast. Jon Ostrower (The Air Current), Brian Sumers (The Airline Observer) and Brett Snyder (Cranky Flier) introduce themselves and this new podcast focusing on the business of the sky, and discuss how the industry has come through the pandemic.

We would like to thank Intelsat for being our launch sponsor.

]]> Buzzsprout-14687782 Wed, 13 Mar 2024 20:00:00 -0700 1762 full false