Star switch by autumn for Continental

Continental Airlines has moved a step closer to joining the United Airlines-led Star Alliance.

The US Department of Transportation approved an application for Continental to join other members with anti-trust immunization, including United and eight other Star Alliance carriers.

The decision will allow the airline to switch from the SkyTeam grouping to the Star Alliance before the end of the year.

The eight Star Alliance members in addition to United who have been granted DOT approval for antitrust immunity are Air Canada, Austrian, Bmi, Lufthansa, LOT Polish Airlines, SAS, SWISS and TAP Air Portugal.

Continental chairman and CEO Larry Kellner said: “We are pleased to receive final approval from the Department of Transportation.

“Continental is working to provide a seamless transition for its customers from the SkyTeam alliance to Star Alliance this autumn.

“The DOT decision greatly benefits our customers, employees and shareholders. It ensures global competition with other antitrust immunized alliances while encouraging the retention and growth of open skies between the US and other nations."

United chairman, president and CEO Glenn Tilton said the decision “facilitates the development of a competitive partnership that is good for consumers, our employees and the communities we serve”.

He added: “United, Continental and the Star Alliance carriers will be able to compete more effectively in an increasingly global air travel market, while providing our respective customers with improved access to more of the world and creating opportunities for our employees.

by Phil Davies