Case Scenario:
Airline alliances are major global partnerships that typically secure antitrust immunization, develop code share flights, coordinate frequent flyer plans, share check-in services, share or consolidate airport lounges, streamline airport ground handling and leverage integrated operations whenever they can.
The Star Alliance (United, Air Canada, Air New Zealand, All Nippon Airways, Austrian Airlines, British Midland, Landa Air, Lufthansa, Mexicana, SAS, Thai, Singapore Airlines, Tyrolean Airways, and Varig) appears to have a clear competitive advantage over the other alliances. The Star Alliance celebrated its fifth anniversary in May 2002. The Star Alliance has antitrust immunity, has combined and integrated more operations, and is more cohesive than the other alliances.
Oneworld, which celebrated its third anniversary in February 2002, is anchored by American Airlines and British Airways. Other members are Air Lingus, Cathay Pacific, Finnair, Iberia, Los Chile and Qantas. It is the only major grouping without meaningful antitrust immunity and has been turned down twice.
SkyTeam composed of Delta, Air France, Alitalia, and CSA Czech Airlines, recently received final approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation for antitrust immunity. It is the third alliance to be granted antitrust immunity on transatlantic operations, following Northwest/KLM and Star. SkyTeam alliance is now moving ahead to integrate and compete on a global scale.
Q1. How can Oneworld, SkyTeam, and Northwest/KLM compete more effectively with the Star Alliance?
Q2. How can Oneworld receive antitrust immunity?
Q3. You are the president of a major airline that does not belong to an alliance. Should you join one?
Q4. You are the president of a regional airline that does not belong to an alliance. Should you join one?
Q5. Are airline alliances good for the consumer?