Who is continental merging with

Based on current shares outstanding, the combined company would have UAL stock closed 2. Since he took the reins of Continental in January, the airline has added fees for meals and exit row seats -- changes the company might have balked at earlier, analysts said. But Smisek told Reuters rank-and-file staff would see little impact on their numbers. But the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers said it was concerned about the effect of the merger on benefits and job security of its more than 26, members at both carriers.

The companies expect to receive government approval and complete the transaction by the end of Hampered by over-capacity, a tough economic outlook and fierce price competition, airlines in the US have struggled to make sustainable profits.

Several top carriers, including United, filed for bankruptcy protection early in the past decade as they suffered slumps in traffic following the attacks of September 11, Industry experts say the carriers have relatively little geographic overlap. United is particularly strong in the west of the US and on flights across the Pacific to Asia, while Continental has a big presence in southern and eastern states, with a broad network of flights to Latin America.

Both fly transatlantic routes to London, and Continental serves several other British cities, including Bristol, Belfast, Edinburgh and Birmingham. The deal means an end to a long history of independence for both carriers. United was founded as a mail carrier in , while Continental, originally called Varney Speed Lines, followed in with a mile inaugural flight between Pueblo, Colorado and El Paso, Texas.

In a compromise thrashed out between the airlines, the combined operation will be called United and based in Chicago but will adopt Continental Airlines' logo of a yellow globe on a blue background. Other options. Close drawer menu Financial Times International Edition. Search the FT Search.

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