It seems there is still a lot of work to be done at LATAM (the combine LAN and TAM entity), with the big question of “Which airline alliance will they dance with” LATAM is saying “Come back in 2012 when we’ve got closer to merging”.
For now, LAN members can redeem away on OneWorld, whilst TAM members will have fun with Star Alliance
For TAM, it’s been an extra US$60m in additional revenues in joining Star – something it won’t want to loose.
Or in their own words
“in our view it’s too early to think about” potentially selecting one alliance for both carriers.
“First of all we have six to nine months on the integration period and during that we have to look for the external third-party authorisation – meaning regulatory, stock exchange offer and so on. Beyond that as we integrate and decide on the comprehensive network for the joint combined companies will be time for us to discuss if we will maintain two independent alliances – meaning Star for TAM and oneworld for LAN – or if we discuss in future a single alliance for LATAM.”
Once LATAM is up and running, they’ll consider their positions. There is a possibility for LAN and TAM to remain individual members of each alliance – or they could go either way (or if they feel really odd – go to SkyTeam)
If I was considering a redemption or using frequent flyer miles to head to South America on TAM or LAN, I wouldn’t hang around and would consider making that redemption before December 2011.
