Alaska Airlines keeps a bullish long-term view despite loosening ties with Delta Air

Alaska Air Group finished 4Q2013 and FY2013 on a strong note ahead of a competitive onslaught by Delta at Alaska's Seattle's hub reaching a crescendo during 2014. Alaska Airlines grew its profits despite facing a higher level of competitive capacity in many of its markets and having numerous routes within its network in the developmental phase.

At the start of 2014 the canny Alaska appears poised to move on from its diminishing relationship with Delta while possibly exploring new opportunities with American as that carrier becomes entrenched in merger integration.

Overall Alaska is maintaining a positive view for 2014 as demand for the moment seems stable and its financial health is strong. While it seems the competitive network pressure continues unabated in 2014, Alaska believes it is capable of demonstrating its staying power.