Quantcast

Why Delta Air Lines avoids establishing a hub in Texas

Why Delta Air Lines avoids establishing a hub in Texas
Policy
Webp 7lnwzkg13193rpsb2ohvqbrclinh
Delta Air Lines | Wikimedia

Delta Air Lines, a major player in the US aviation industry, has opted not to establish a hub in Texas despite its extensive network across the country. The airline operates on a hub-and-spoke model with significant operations in cities like Atlanta, Detroit, Salt Lake City, and Seattle. Notably absent from this list is any Texan city.

The Texas air travel market is dominated by American Airlines and United Airlines. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport serves as a crucial hub for American Airlines, while George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston is vital for United's operations. Both airlines have capitalized on the high volume of business travelers frequenting these cities.

Delta previously operated a hub at Dallas/Fort Worth but withdrew due to intense competition from American Airlines. "The primary factor keeping the airline away is heavy competition," according to Delta's strategic analysis. This competition extends beyond business travelers; Southwest Airlines holds significant market shares at Dallas Love Field and Houston Hobby Airport among leisure travelers.

Get the Newsletter
Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News
By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

Despite this, Delta remains capable of competing against major carriers when necessary. At Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), where it contends with both American and United, Delta maintains the largest market share at 19.76%. However, establishing such dominance requires substantial resources that Delta appears unwilling to invest in Texas.

"Delta can go head for head with American and United when it needs to," yet the airline chooses to focus its efforts elsewhere rather than challenge established competitors in Texas.

While lacking a hub in Texas, Delta does maintain Austin as a focus city. The carrier plans to expand services there with new routes launching soon from Austin Bergstrom Airport to Tampa International Airport and San Francisco International Airport through its regional subsidiary, Delta Connection.

"Delta actually does have a presence in Texas," albeit limited compared to its rivals' strongholds within the state.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

Airbus has released its order and delivery statistics for May, revealing that the company did not secure any new orders during the month.

Jun 9, 2025

Wizz Air is set to increase its capacity by approximately 20% in the year leading up to March 2026, despite facing challenges with a portion of its fleet being grounded due to Pratt & Whitney GTF engine issues.

Jun 9, 2025

ITA Airways is reportedly planning to expand its operations by launching over a dozen new long-haul routes in the next five years.

Jun 9, 2025

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) plans to suspend airline operations at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport on the evening of June 14.

Jun 9, 2025

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, a joint venture between Hungary-based Wizz Air and Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company (ADQ), has experienced significant changes since its launch in January 2021.

Jun 9, 2025

Southwest Airlines, the fourth-largest airline in the United States, has reported a total of 4,194 daily movements for June.

Jun 9, 2025