I did notice the subtle differences there and certainly agree.
In particular the angular terminals. That's why I said "almost". I'd never dismiss those differences, but do those subtle differences align with a goal of distinct identity? Identity feels like more of a higher level observation. For example, if you had two white hats with black text on them in each typeface, you probably wouldn't be able to identify at a glance which company they came from.
I mean, you could say the same about Lufthansa and (formerly) American's use of Helvetica. But no one would accuse them of having the same corporate identity.
I think the big difference here is how much the typeface itself is touted as being being new or distinct from others as a foundation for their style going forward. Perhaps that's just the impression though. For the airlines' use of Helvetica, that design choice was deliberate. How unique the choice was from others wasn't the main thing going on.
I'm not sure I've effectively communicated that thought. Seems tricky to convey. Again, it seems like maybe I'm getting an impression that isn't intentional.
