Continental says it will not merge with United
Continental Airlines said Sunday it plans to remain an independent carrier. The airline had conducted formal merger talks with United Airlines, which has been interested in merging with Continental for years. Continental CEO Larry Kellner said that although the airline had decided against merging with United at this time, it is open to discussing joining global alliances with other carriers. Meanwhile, United CEO Glenn Tilton, looking ahead to the possibility of other business deals, said his company "will pursue all options to ensure a strong, sustainable future for our airline and will not shy away from the tough choices necessary to create value for our shareholders and benefit our employees and customers." New York Times, The (04/28), Wall Street Journal, The (04/28), Houston Chronicle (04/27), Chicago Tribune/Associated Press (04/27), Dallas Morning News, The (04/27)