The Department of Transport has made a move that will no doubt infuriate Richard Branson. The immunity from antitrust laws, for the OneWorld carriers for American, British Airways, Finair and Iberia has been granted putting it on equal footing of SkyTeam and Star Alliance
Quoting the DoT:
The Department said the proposed alliance would enhance competition in the airline industry “by creating competition with the existing Star Alliance and the SkyTeam alliance, which already have been granted immunity.”
As part of the approval however, 4 pairs of slots at Heathrow must be surrendered to other carriers as part of the process, as well as capacity growth plans and traffic figures for review.
Obviously the Bearded One is very unhappy, who sees this as an afront to his little airline, quoting that prices will rise, and that competition rules are going to the wall.
To quote Sir Richard:
“Millions of transatlantic travellers will be adversely affected if the alliance receives final approval.
“In my personal opinion, this draft decision is a real kick in the teeth for consumers and they will be paying the price for it for years to come.”
Which reminds me Richard, since you codeshare with Star Alliance airlines mainly, isn’t it time to bite the bullet and join Star Alliance? There’s even 4 pairs of long haul slots up for grabs if there’s final approval…..
