It also means higher cost. A rich team like the Moose can afford it. For smaller struggling AHL teams, it would be even more cost to absorb.
I don't know if there are any studies or stats to backup the fact that teams might have more success if they have faster, more comfortable commutes.
For many AHL teams out east, bus travel is logical but I'm sure that most of them will fly when they play Western teams and the Flames most likely have to fly everywhere and then take mini bus journeys when on a road trip.
Unless they are on an extended road trip through the NE USA, it's pretty much impossible for the Flames not to fly everywhere and indeed there is a travel subsidy as part of their agreement I believe.
Look how ridiculous travel looks:
