BlondeBomber, yes I thought that was a funny joke on the US board. Wishful thinking indeed

I have mixed feelings about the merger. Is it so necessary for UA to buy the airline in order to have a strong north-south network on the East Coast? UA could certainly expand IAD operations to achieve that. Will UA really make full use out of hubs in PIT, PHL, and CLT? I also have a hard time believing US executives that this merger is detrimental to the airline's survival. US was doing well on its own - nice new Airbus aircraft, International expansion, and a generous frequent flyer program. If they wanted to have a fully national route network, they could've achieved that by merging with HP. But unfortunately, US' executives are eager to sell so they can make a quick buck before retiring. Whatever happened to the days when airlines were run by people passionate about the industry?

On the other hand, US benefits by joining a global alliance - something they lacked since the break-up with BA. In terms of FF benefits, I'm hoping that if the merger goes through, the systemwides US provides to all their elite members would be valid on UA flights (SYD, here I come ) But I'll miss the ease of claiming awards on US (waved blackout dates for elites), and the friendly, small airline atmosphere that currently exists.

At this point it's hard to say if this will affect my loyalty to the airline. I'm using last year's SWUs to fly YYZ-PHL-FCO in May, then I'm flying on a real cheap BUF-BWI ticket in June, and I have planned an award res for YHM-PIT-LAS in December. If UA maintains the routes and fares after the merger, I may consider them - but my heart will always lie with AA