Reynolds made his announcement in the wake of newly published reports that Delta is the leading bidder for a share of DCAir, the new airline that would be created as a result of the proposed merger between United Airways and USAirways. The merger requires approval from federal regulators. I have previously said that rather than create a new airline, USAirways slots at Reagan National should be granted to a low-cost carrier. Delta s decision to suspend service between LaGurdia and Buffalo and Rochester only reinforces those views. Delta lost a number of slots following a recent lottery held among the airlines at LaGuardia.
Slots are takeoff and landing rights during peak times at the nation s busiest airports.
Following the lottery, Delta began canceling service between LaGuardia and smaller communities.