Not really so.

Because of the relationship with LH Adria and Croatia already had their ducks in a row. Other airlines like SAA are much larger and it takes quite a bit longer to communicate to all of their departments and people what to expect. The what to expect also entails a lot of changes to programs and procedures, not the least of which is the SAA frequent flyer program to include ALL of the other member airlines.

The main issues are systems, procedures, policies and staff knowledge oriented. The areas are fares co-ordination, flight scheduling, labour unions, revenue accounting, lounge access, FF redemption, gates, slots, ground handling, purchasing and supply, maintenance, onboard standards and the biggy, I.T. compatibility.

These are not all deal breakers, but there needs to be a process set up to accomodate as many as possible. They at least all need to be discussed. The two newest members had already complied with al of these in their existing relationship with LH.

For SAA it is like sitting down and negotiating 15 new agreements.