Full-service carriers such as BA and Iberia are also facing growing competition on short-haul European routes from no-frills airlines like Ryanair and Easyjet.

BBC: BA and Iberia forge closer links

Though they are part-owned by JAL and ANA, competition may dent the high prices the full-service carriers have typically charged on domestic and short-haul international routes.

ECONOMIST: Japanese Airlines

With such discounters as Southwest, EasyJet and Ryanair adding to their fleets and still making money, full-service carriers will need more than a stronger economy to stay in the air.

FORBES: Under fire

As more carriers make the full switch over to 4G service, they will need to manufacture new circuit boards.

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