Much has been made of the DOT’s decision to proceed with minimal restrictions on the approval of the enlargement of the Star Alliance with CO and the approval of the new A++ group. It seems that the DOJ had little influence over the decision despite laying out very clear anti-competitive objections to the proposed (and now approved) action. This would indicate a clear differing of opinions in the matters of air transport amongst the new Administration.
Continental Airlines was granted limited antitrust immunity today by the U.S. Department of Transportation -- a move that will allow it to join United Airlines and other airlines in the Star Alliance in creating schedules and determining fares.
The order did, however, set limits on the antitrust immunity in regards to some international routes.
Though it has already been years in the making,
a ubiquitous, common IT platform for the Star Alliance is one step closer to reality now that system provider Amadeus announced a 10-year pact with SAS Group. Though not the largest, SAS is a cog in Star. Skepticism regarding Amadeus' ability to actually bring Star founder United Airlines into the common IT fold was somewhat lessened when vice president of strategic airline and partner programs
Hans Jorgensen in March told
The Beat that United's planned migration to the system still is on track.
