Air Canada and United Continental have been given the go-ahead to forge a joint venture to "protect consumers and preserve competition" on 14 popular routes between the U.S. and Canada. The deal means that the airlines can organize prices, expenses and revenue; and share sensitive information. In short, it "will ensure that passengers do not face higher prices and less choice on high-demand routes between Canada and the U.S.," according to John Pecman, interim commissioner at Canada's Competition Bureau.