The imminent expiry of the Wright amendment at Dallas Love Field Airport will hurt American Airlines’ business, says AA president Scott Kirby.
The Wright amendment, a law limiting the number of direct flights out of Love Field expires October 13, and airlines will then be able to fly to any US destination.
"It will have an impact on us. But I think we will win the competitive battle, particularly for the premium business traveler," Kirby said.
"So I think we’ll be successful in holding onto most of our premium customers."
Southwest Airlines will be the major beneficiary of the relaxed rules, and has already announced new nonstop services to 17 cities from Love Field.
By January, Southwest plans to increase capacity by 20% to 153 departures.
"Southwest is a great competitor but I think we have a real competitive advantage in Dallas," said Kirby adding that Southwest "is a good and strong competitor with a loyal following in Dallas."
American flies nonstop to virtually all the same cities as Southwest out of nearby Dallas/Fort Worth Airport.
