Latitudes
Jul 4, 04, 8:37 pm
From ABC News (Monday, July 5, 2004. 12:08pm (AEST)):
Air New Zealand and Qantas have taken their case to form an alliance to New Zealand's High Court.
The airlines are arguing they need the deal to remain competitive.
Although competition watchdogs on both sides of the Tasman Sea have rejected any alliance, the airlines now have appeals underway in both Australia and New Zealand.
Air New Zealand's lawyer Jim Farmer has told the High Court the arrival of new competitors into New Zealand has weakened the major airlines.
"The merger is necessary to restore a competitive position that will otherwise be rapidly eroded by Virgin Blue and by Emirates," he said.
Qantas is asking for a 22.5 per cent stake in its rival.
Here is the link: http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200407/s1146879.htm
Air New Zealand and Qantas have taken their case to form an alliance to New Zealand's High Court.
The airlines are arguing they need the deal to remain competitive.
Although competition watchdogs on both sides of the Tasman Sea have rejected any alliance, the airlines now have appeals underway in both Australia and New Zealand.
Air New Zealand's lawyer Jim Farmer has told the High Court the arrival of new competitors into New Zealand has weakened the major airlines.
"The merger is necessary to restore a competitive position that will otherwise be rapidly eroded by Virgin Blue and by Emirates," he said.
Qantas is asking for a 22.5 per cent stake in its rival.
Here is the link: http://www.abc.net.au/news/newsitems/200407/s1146879.htm