For me, this is probably wonderful news, because I am a big fan of VS PE from JFK/IAD to LHR. Right now, the JV PE fares from US/Canada to Europe don't include VS, so even if I want to take the extra stop to hop LHR-CDG/ORY, or LHR-23 hour stopover-LCY-AMS, I can't use VS metal even on a DL ticket.
For business travelers, I don't think this makes much difference unless AF/DL gives VS an infusion to start flying short haul from MAN or something.