EU gives backing to Lufthansa/Swiss deal
The European Commission has approved the takeover of Swiss International by German carrier Lufthansa.
The announcement, delivered earlier than expected, comes shortly after US competition authorities also waved the plan through.
A statement issued by Lufthansa said it has agreed with the EU to ensure adequate slots are made available to rival airlines on some European and intercontinental routes. US approval was unconditional.
Lufthansa executive board chairman and chief executive Wolfgang Mayrhuber said customers of both airlines will see the benefits of the deal “in just a few weeks.”
“Lufthansa and Swiss deliver quality mobility to and from Europe,” he said.
Swiss president and chief executive Christoph Franz added: “We are seeing the team-up of two globally reputed airlines with the same commitment to superior service and quality. We can now offer our customers more destinations, better connections, integrated frequent flyer programmes and greater lounge access.”
An expanded range of products and services will begin at the start of the 2005/06 winter schedules.
Report by Steve Jones
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