BA, AA & Iberia in trans-Atlantic deal
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British Airways, American Airlines and Iberia have signed a joint business agreement on flights between North America and Europe, with further plans to expand their global cooperation. The UK flag-carrier announced the deal, saying that the relationship will benefit consumers with improved choice, increased flight schedules and enhanced frequent flyer benefits.
The airlines now plan to file for worldwide anti-trust immunity from the US Department of Transportation and the EU’s regulatory body.
BA Chief Executive, Willie Walsh, hailed the move, saying; “This strategic relationship strengthens competition by providing consumers with easier journeys to more destinations with better aligned schedules and frequencies.”
However the agreement is likely to come in for fierce opposition from trans-Atlantic competitors, especially Richard Branson’s Virgin Atlantic. Last week Branson wrote to US Presidential candidates Barack Obama and John McCain to petition against the proposed merger, saying it would be “dangerous” for the industry.
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