United-Continental Merger Could Happen this Weekend

Contributing Editor Carl Unger believes that every trip is worth taking. He loves an extended trip to Europe as much as he enjoys exploring the towns and landscape near home. Basically, you'll find him wherever there is good food, fresh air, and plenty of stories to bring home.

Carl has been writing for SmarterTravel since 2005. His travel writing has also appeared on USA Today and the About.com Boston travel guide.

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The Chicago Sun-Times is reporting that a merger between United and Continental could be finalized by Sunday. According to the Sun-Times, both airlines have agreed on a deal, and simply need their respective board of directors to approve it. United’s board is expected to vote today, with Continental’s slated to vote Sunday.

But approval is hardly a sure thing. Continental’s board rejected a similar deal with United two years ago, citing concerns about United’s financial stability. United is in much better shape now, which seems to make a vote of approval more likely. The Wall Street Journal adds that both carriers appear to be “back on track” after a disagreement over the price of the deal earlier this week.

So, will next week begin with United-Continental usurping Delta’s reign as the world’s largest carrier? It’s certainly possible, if not probable. There appears to be a very strong drive, on both United and Continental’s part, to get a deal done. And considering there’s likely millions awaiting both CEOs if a deal goes through, you can bet they’ll keep pushing for a resolution. Stay tuned.

Readers, do you think a deal would be a good thing for the industry?

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