since GRU is the largest market in the region, DL would be going in with their hand tied behind their back.
Further, DL is clearly focusing its competitive efforts on the west coast. Based on current schedules, DL will offer more than 15% more seats in the 3 west coast states by the end of the announced buildup at SEA and will be on par with AA/US in terms of size.
Given that DL's already started Pacific expansion depends on its west coast growth, it makes sense to get that right first.
DL is still growing at a very fast 30%+ growth rate in Latin America and the Caribbean- with the growth primarily focused on Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean and is neck and neck with UA for #2 in the region depending on the time period measured.
DL will take on S. America and Latin America from MIA in time...