Delta, NWA would consolidate some airport operations
May 15, 2008
Delta Air Lines and Northwest Airlines would plan to consolidate terminal
operations at some airports, including Los Angeles International and
Chicago-O'Hare, after their merger, executives said today.
While the two airlines' strategy is to maintain existing hubs, facilities at
other airports will be closed and consolidated, Delta CEO Richard Anderson told
members of the House Transportation subcommittee on aviation during testimony.
He noted that in Los Angeles, for example, Delta and Northwest flights operate
out of two different terminals. After they merge, "we'll figure out where we can
accommodate both, and work with the city to rationalize the facilities."
Many representatives posed skeptical questions about the merger and its effect
on competition and service to small communities.
Some of the most aggressive questioning came from Rep. Jim Oberstar, D-Minn.,
who called Northwest CEO Doug Steenland and Anderson two of the "smartest, most
seasoned airline executives in the business today," adding, "that's why you're
dangerous."
Oberstar asked what a merger will provide to Northwest and Delta's service
across the Atlantic that their tentatively approved deal for anti-trust immunity
on routes to Europe doesn't already give them.
Steenland said that the merged airline will be able to provide a single frequent
flier program, so that passenger don't have to piece together flights using two
systems
The hearing will continue later this afternoon
following a recess for floor votes in the House.
A live webcast of the hearings can be found at:
transportation.house.gov/subcommittees/aviation.aspx
Source: Pioneer Press
|