United Airlines seems to be the prime mover in the next industry merger, and a decision could come soon as carriers are forced to consolidate for survival.
Now that a proposal for Delta Air Lines to swallow Northwest Airlines is under US antitrust review with good prospects for approval, according to several experts, attention has shifted to United and its talks with US Airways Group Inc and Continental Airlines Inc.
"Something's going to happen. You're looking at a carrier that's sinking fast," said consultant Michael Boyd, a critic of United management. "I've become convinced that United probably has to merge." For the first time, all the major carriers, according to industry sources, are in play for possible mergers or stronger marketing alliances. Delta and Northwest announced their deal on April 14. Sources briefed on the situation have said American Airlines has had early stage discussions with US Airways and is in advanced talks for an alliance with Continental.
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