The world’s largest airline set for take-off

The US Department of Justice has approved the proposed US$3bn merger of Continental Airlines and United Airlines, in a move that will create the world’s largest airline.

To get permission the airlines have agreed to surrender slots for 18 daily flights from New York’s Newark airport. These will be given to low-cost carrier Southwest.

The final hurdle is for shareholders to approve the merger of the two airlines at a meeting next month.

Star Alliance founder United operates 3,400 daily flights to 230 destinations and has a workforce of 46,000 staff.

Continental has more than 2,700 daily departures serving almost 170 destinations and has over 40,000 employees.

Source: BTN

31.08.10