American Airlines and US Airways have completed their merger, resulting in the creation of the world’s largest airline. The two companies have been trying to combine for years but were hindered by objections from the Justice Department and some flyers. On Monday, despite these challenges, the merger was officially finalized. Now, the two companies will be joined as American Airlines Group Inc., or AAL. According to Los Angeles Times, the Fort Worth, Texas-based airline will “operate nearly 6,700 daily flights to more than 330 destinations in more than 50 countries and employ more than 100,000 workers.”
So what does this mean for frequent flyers?
It may take some time for the websites and reservations to sync up, but frequent flyer miles are safe. Flyers will earn and redeem miles from both carriers, American Airlines or US Airways. They will enjoy reciprocal elite recognition so they can use their miles on either airline, and they will have access to both American Admirals Clubs and US Airways Clubs. The changes are set to launch in early January and should work almost immediately for frequent flyers. The bigger merging of the two companies may take some time, but we hope for it to be successfully finished within the coming year.
Source: Los Angeles Times
