Comments on: As airline alliances grow, do frequent fliers really benefit?

By: DOT wake up! Airline alliances are becoming defacto international mergers

DOT wake up! Airline alliances are becoming defacto international mergers — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 15:31:43 +0000

[...] articles on this subject: AA, BA, IB, et.al. get antitrust immunity, consumers get less competition As airline alliances grow, do frequent fliers really benefit? Senators ask Transportation Department to heed warning on airline alliances Who should control [...]

By: Jerry Mandel

Jerry Mandel — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 16:48:14 +0000

I am highly delighted with alliances and code shares (not the same thing). They have enabled us to fly to destinations not served by our “home” airline and to fly on other airlines when our “home” airline says no flier seats are avalable. Also, they have enabled us to get better routings, schedules, and connections.

By: Arizona Road Warrior

Arizona Road Warrior — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 14:32:43 +0000

While there are several good advantages to alliances, I think that one of the disadvantages is less ‘competition’…when one airline in the alliance does something (i.e. increase fees, increase mileage requirements, etc.), it gives the other airlines the room to do the same.

By: Vijay

Vijay — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 15:51:57 +0000

I think the biggest advantage of alliances is shared resources like lounges. As a Delta Platinum, I am able to enjoy a lounge in any Sky Team hub even when flying on a coach ticket, something otherwise impossible.