Smisek: Continental still open to merger with United

Continental Airlines is keeping a close eye on Delta Air Lines' merger with Northwest Airlines, Continental President Jeff Smisek admits. Though the Houston-based carrier is currently happy to remain independent as a member of the Star Alliance, Smisek says he would reconsider a full merger with United Airlines if "Delta outperforms us financially." Some analysts say a combination between the third- and fourth-largest U.S. carriers is "inevitable," though a United spokeswoman refused to speculate on specific merger plans. "We have long believed the industry will benefit from consolidation, particularly as the competitive landscape has been reset," she noted.

Chicago Tribune | 11/03 Bookmark and Share

This story published in ATA SmartBrief on 11/04/2009





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