Officials from Elkhart Township Ill.-based United Airlines and Continental Airlines from Houston, Texas announced Sunday the proposed merger of the two major airline corporations. On Tuesday, representatives of the group gathered in downtown Chicago to announce the plans for their new headquarters, to be located in the Willis Tower. According to an article posted on the Chicago Tribune’s website , officials at both companies have been working since 2008 to align portions of their operations to prepare for the merger which they plan to complete by the end of the year.
The merger still needs antitrust approval both from federal regulators and shareholders, and considering its size – it would result in the world’s largest airline carrier –- there has been some concern. Regardless, this would be a boon to Chicago –- already home to Boeing, (technically) United Airlines and O’Hare airport, which is ranked as the nation’s second-busiest airport with 31 million flyers. Additionally, the increase in traffic and capital to the city would help it rebound from previous unsuccessful endeavors.
The New York Times reported yesterday, “After failing in its bid for the 2016 Olympics and losing trade shows to other cities, Chicago might not have been able to bear another sock to the gut. So it was with glee, and some Chicago-style hyperbole, that officials gathered at the Willis Tower to revel in their good fortune.”
For all of us weary Northwestern jet-setters it may be too early to worry about the implications this will have for travel to and from school, as the merger is still up for review. But keep an eye out for Chicago’s newest corporation, which plans to keep Continental’s logo and the United Airlines name, as it aims to fully take flight in early 2012, when they expect to get certification from the Federal Aviation Administration.