Gulf carriers are making it big on the international circuit.
Airlines like Emirates, Qatar, and Etihad have emerged as major players
in the international market. In fact, some bigger airlines in the United
States and Europe deem these carriers as a concern.
At present, Emirates, the largest of the gulf carriers has already made
its mark by establishing itself as the top international carrier based
on its passenger traffic. The airline has bigger expansion plans in the
near future, therefore, is constantly making additions to its existing
massive fleet. Big commercial players like American Airlines, Delta Air
Lines, and United Airlines do not seem to be bothered at the moment
courtesy the geographic dividing them.
The gulf carriers have however, managed to use their position to benefit
the connecting routes to destinations in Australia, Asia, and South
America via their hubs. Emirates operates out of its hub in Dubai and
has exploited its position for its own benefit. Many passengers break
their journey in Dubai to fly to their final destinations. The airline
has been using the opportunity for its personal gains over the years.
Not all do however, agree that Emirates is not a real concern for the
airlines operating out of the United States. Many believe that the
airline will, in the times to come, inflict wounds on the commercial
airlines of the U.S. by eating into their routes thereby posing an open
challenge. Emirates intends to offer nonstop flights to several
destinations across the United States, and also to Europe and Asia.
Currently it operates flights between New York and Milan, which is a big
business center for the United States.