What is the major operational advantage of using the hub-and-spoke model for American Airlines?

The hub-and-spoke model provides a significant operational advantage through increased connectivity and optimized route efficiency. This structure allows American Airlines to concentrate its flight operations at major hubs, facilitating easier connections for travelers from various origins to their final destinations. For example, instead of needing direct flights between numerous city pairs, passengers can connect through hubs, which enables a greater number of routes to be served with fewer aircraft.

This model also maximizes the use of resources, as flights can be timed to minimize layover times and ensure smooth transitions for passengers transferring between flights. Additionally, it allows the airline to respond flexibly to demand in different markets, adjusting the frequency of flights based on passenger needs without necessarily impacting overall operational costs. By optimizing routes and improving connectivity, American Airlines can enhance travel options for its passengers while maintaining operational efficiency.