Virgin boss Branson slams plan for US-UK joint airline

Published on Sunday 14 February 2010 21:48

THE United States government's decision to support plan allowing American Airlines and British Airways to join forces is "a kick in the teeth" for consumers, Virgin Atlantic boss Sir Richard Branson said.

The plan, supported by the US department of transportation, would see the airlines work together to share costs. That could allow them to offer lower fares on more routes, and reduced travel and connection times, but they would have to give up four take-off and landing slots between Heathrow and the US in return.

Sir Richard said the decision beggared belief. He said:

"Millions of transatlantic travellers will be adversely affected if the alliance receives final approval.

"In my personal opinion, this draft decision is a real kick in the teeth for consumers, and they will be paying the price for it for years to come."

The US department of transportation will decide after a 60-day consultation period whether to give the plan immunity from anti-trust legislation.

A BA spokesman said: "British Airways, American Airlines and Iberia plan to operate a joint business between North America and Europe. Their closer co-operation will benefit customers with more travel choices and convenient schedules."