Continental Airlines has joined
BCD Travel in urging ACTE and NBTA to reconsider a merger. Here's the Continental letter to the boards of the associations, in its entirety:
June 29, 2009
Association of Corporate Travel Executives
Attn: Board of Directors
515 King Street
Suite 440
Alexandria, VA 22314
National Business Travel Association
Attn: Board of Directors
110 North Royal Street
4th Floor
Alexandria, VA 22314
Dear Colleagues:
On behalf of Continental Airlines, I'd like to offer our thoughts on
the potential merger of ACTE and NBTA, which has been a longstanding
topic of discussion in the corporate marketplace. Given the recent
discussions that have resurfaced, and the fact that it appeared to be
close to becoming a reality, we wanted to take this opportunity to
encourage both organizations to reconsider a merger.
Continental has been a long time supporter and contributor to both
organizations for many years. We believe each organization has been
successful through it's accomplishments that have benefited the entire
travel industry - quality programs and education, raising awareness on
issues that are critical to the business travel industry and providing
a global platform. It's been an incredible journey of growth for both
organizations and we are proud to have been an active member and
played a part.
Today, all stakeholders - not just the airlines - are facing
unprecedented times. Business travel has been dealt a blow in this
global recession and corporations are cutting costs and forced to make
tough decisions. All of our colleagues in the industry are impacted
in some way and many have lost their jobs as part of cost cutting
measures. Both buyers and suppliers are challenged and it's
imperative that as an industry we be as efficient, as nimble and
resourceful as ever and cost is a focus for all.
We believe this is the perfect time and opportunity to merge the best
of both worlds to create a winning, global business travel
association. Both ACTE and NBTA have great strengths and synergies
and it's time to bring them together.
I am writing to you, the Board of Directors of both organizations, to
appeal to you to give the potential merger of the ACTE and NBTA
organizations the careful consideration it deserves.
Please don't hesitate to call me, if you would like to discuss this
further. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Monisa Cline
Staff Vice President
North America Sales
Continental Airlines, Inc.
