Jaunted

As with any merger, the downside is that the airlines will be cutting redundant flights, which theoretically means higher ticket prices. On the other hand, BA isn't exactly known for its lean LCC-like efficiency, while Iberia usually comes up in booking conversations like "well OK, but maybe there's a reward seat open on Iberia that I can use as a connection... can you check that?" A little structural shaking up might be good across the board, with the new savings then getting passed on to consumers.

Even more importantly, the EU approved expanded cooperation between BA/Iberia and American Airlines. We've already expounded upon the glories of oneworld reward bookings, and we've also given you tips on how to make the most of your oneworld miles. The promise of expanded trans-Atlantic options, coupled with the near-certainty that restructuring will lower prices at least a little bit, makes this a potential win-win for airline and consumer.

Unless of course the combined airline uses the merger to decrease the value of miles. Or the US Department of Transportation nixes the deal. Or flights get cut but waste gets left in place. Or Virgin Atlantic's protests get heard and considered. In that case, oops.

[Photo: SkyNews]

Related Stories:
· EU clears BA-Iberia merger, alliance with American [Las Vegas Sun]
· Airline News [Jaunted]
· Airline Mergers [Jaunted]