PEOPLExpress business model remains murky as it finally moves closer to launch

The somewhat-hyped acquisition by start-up PEOPLExpress of charter carrier XTRA Airways may accelerate the carrier's long overdue market entry, but it will do little to improve PEOPLExpress' odds of survival in a US market place that now revolves around three distinct business models - ultra low-cost, hybrid and full-service network carriers.

PEOPLExpress' declaration that it would retain the XTRA brand and its charter services only clouds its already murky business plan, which should give rational, would-be investors pause as the carrier has done little to crystallise its vision other than buying a smaller carrier in order to obtain an operating certificate after overestimating the time and effort entailed in gaining approval from the US FAA.