There is also set of markets that are just always going to use it.

I live in Australia, so when I go to Europe, it is always via at least one hub airport. Often Dubai. Same story if I go to the east coast US.

Even if this model is becoming less important, airlines like Emirates and SIA will be in a good position to dominate what is left of it.

But thanks to the 787’s extended range variants, that’s not necessarily going to be the case for long. Qantas starts Perth to London direct in March on the 787.