Yesterday, Delta Air Lines completed the deal to acquire Northwest Airlines, making the newer, larger Delta the world’s largest carrier. The U.S. Department of Justice approved the deal after deciding that there were no antitrust objections. Federal regulators released a statement that said the “the proposed merger between Delta and Northwest is likely to produce substantial and credible efficiencies that will benefit U.S. consumers and is not likely to substantially lessen competition.”
The Department of Justice also added that consumers should benefit from savings on expenses for airport operations, technology and suppliers, and the companies have added that they plan to save $2 billion each year in expenses after the merger is complete.
How will this affect Delta and Northwest travelers? For now, SkyMiles by Delta and WorldPerks by Northwest, the airlines’ rewards programs, will remain separate, but you can combine miles for travel on either airline. Delta said that no flights will be immediately affected by the merger and it will be a while before flight schedules change.
Will this change the way you fly or what airline you use?
