uh DL just started SEA-HND less than a year ago and, unless you something the rest of us don't, it continues to operate.
SEA-HND is essentially a replacement for SFO-NRT which is ending.
DL is operating SEA and LAX to NRT with 744s in addition to 767s to HND and their average fare in both of those markets is higher than AA or UA. The issue with SFO is that they don't have the feed to fill up the rest of the aircraft that is not local - where DL is competitive with UA.
Since UA is also cutting SEA, it clearly shows that both DL and UA recognize that they can't operate TPAC service from every west coast gateway.
The AS-DL partnership is necessary to ensure that DL can get the connections it needs to support its int'l flights.
Since DL doesn't feel like AS is helping enough with connections, DL is putting in its own domestic flights to the top markets from SEA - other than to UA/AA/US hubs.
robbed,
CLT is already a very competitive east coast hub and the only viable alternate to ATL. AA and DL have hubs in the SE which is an advantage that UA does not have.
AA and DL have multiple hubs or large operations on the east coast in addition which will ensure the east coast remains very competitive.
On the west coast, TPAC flights are a big part of the ability to remain a dominant carrier. DL and UA both have two gateways that have multiple flights.
thanks for focusing on the topic at hand, robbed.