German newspaper Handelsblatt had some newsbits the last days. I understand that talks between LH and AB are near a deal. 40 AB planes and lots of AB staff and pilots are to change over to EW and the rebranding/rescheduling might take effect as soon as Nov 1st 2016.
Probably AB wants to get some cash for the deal.
I usually share this link to my fellow colleagues and friends who like to fly AB: