

The Two Major Airlines Competing for Austin’s Travel Dollars
13 snips Sep 9, 2025
Elissa Castles, a producer with firsthand travel experience, joins the discussion on the fierce competition between Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport. Elissa shares insights on Delta's growing international routes and new flight attendant base, while highlighting its elevated service. The debate intensifies as they weigh Southwest's affordability and accessibility for locals against Delta's premium offerings. Who will emerge as Austin's favored airline? Tune in for the showdown!
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Airport Expansion Spurs Airline Competition
- Austin's ABIA expansion has triggered a two-airline turf battle between Southwest and Delta for gates and passengers.
- Southwest wants anchor-tenant status while Delta is rapidly adding direct routes and local operations.
Delta's Route Network Is Internationally Oriented
- Delta offers many nonstop domestic and international connections, including code-share access to Amsterdam via KLM.
- That network strength makes Delta attractive for travelers who want fewer connections and more international options.
Southwest Competes On Price And Leisure Routes
- Southwest matches many domestic routes and serves leisure international destinations like Cancun and Jamaica at much lower fares.
- Its pricing and direct options make it highly attractive for cost-conscious domestic and leisure travelers.