Copyright 2000 The Washington Post
The Washington
Post
December 27, 2000, Wednesday, Final Edition
SECTION: OP-ED; Pg. A22
LENGTH: 278 words
HEADLINE:
Reinforcing Competition at BWI
BODY:
Maryland Transportation Secretary John Porcari opposes the
US Airways-United Airlines merger [Close to Home, Dec. 17]
because of its effect on competition at Baltimore-Washington International
Airport. But the presence of Southwest Airlines at BWI undercuts his claim that
somehow competitive fares there will evaporate if the merger proceeds. Southwest
has given every indication that it will continue to grow at BWI and that it
remains committed to its low-fare strategy, ensuring that regional travelers
will still benefit from growing competition and the lower fares it brings.
Mr. Porcari also ignored the fact that Southwest and other low-cost
airlines such as JetBlue and AirTran have placed US Airways, with its high cost
structure, in a precarious position. Even much stronger airlines, such as Delta,
have acknowledged the threat posed by Southwest.
At BWI, US Airways'
market share has declined steadily since the arrival of Southwest, which is a
driving force behind the decision of US Airways to move ahead with the United
merger. The status quo is not an option for US Airways. Secretary Porcari is
mistaken in his assumption that everything would remain the same if the US
Airways-United merger is not approved.
The secretary also did not note
that the US Airways-United merger will increase competition for
Washington-Baltimore area travelers through the creation of DC Air, a new
carrier that will be based at Ronald Reagan National Airport. DC Air will
provide additional choices and competition for area travelers.
LAWRENCE
M. NAGIN
Executive Vice President, Corporate Affairs
And General
Counsel
US Airways
Arlington
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December 27, 2000 
