Los Angeles Airport at the heart of a fierce battle between American Airlines and Delta Air Lines

Los Angeles International Airport has emerged as a battle ground for American Airlines and Delta Air Lines during the last couple of years as the market, while hugely fragmented, retains a high level of importance within the networks of most US major airlines.

But the success of each airline's recent expansion in Los Angeles is tough to predict. Both American and Delta unsurprisingly declare that their operations in Los Angeles are successful; but the longevity of that success is difficult to predict given the tough competitive dynamics in the market.

The investments each airline is making in Los Angeles obviously carry some risk. But the scenario for American is a bit different given it does not have a true west coast hub for long-haul traffic, and the operating constraints in Los Angeles threaten to constrain its optimal growth path.