Delta to Buy American?

A nationally recognized reporter, writer, and consumer advocate, Ed Perkins focuses on how travelers can find the best deals and avoid scams.

He is the author of "Online Travel" (2000) and "Business Travel: When It's Your Money" (2004), the first step-by-step guide specifically written for small business and self-employed professional travelers. He was also the co-author of the annual "Best Travel Deals" series from Consumers Union.

Perkins' advice for business travelers is featured on MyBusinessTravel.com, a website devoted to helping small business and self-employed professional travelers find the best value for their travel dollars.

Perkins was founding editor of Consumer Reports Travel Letter, one of the country's most influential travel publications, from which he retired in 1998. He has also written for Business Traveller magazine (London).

Perkins' travel expertise has led to frequent television appearances, including ABC's "Good Morning America" and "This Week with David Brinkley," "The CBS Evening News with Dan Rather," CNN, and numerous local TV and radio stations.

Before editing Consumer Reports Travel Letter, Perkins spent 25 years in travel research and consulting with assignments ranging from national tourism development strategies to the design of computer-based tourism models.

Born in Evanston, Illinois, Perkins lives in Ashland, Oregon with his wife.

See recent posts by Ed Perkins

January isn’t even over yet, but Delta Airlines has come up with what will undoubtedly remain the year’s worst idea. Wall Street is full of rumors that Delta will make an offer to acquire American Airlines as soon as American gets its debts and balance sheet in order.

As usual, the money manipulators—lawyers, consultants, and company big shots with golden parachutes—would make out big time in such a deal, but consumers—not so much. Neither line offers a notably good economy class product, neither offers a real premium economy option, and Delta—which would presumably run the resulting show—has the industry’s worst frequent flyer reputation for award availability.

You’d think that the Department of Justice (DOJ) would be all over this on antitrust grounds, but the DOJ has allowed some weird combinations in the past. At this point, there’s probably no way for ordinary consumers to be heard, but if you get the chance, speak up.

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