I'd be very surprised with this going on if the new US did not remain in *.
Yes, but the AC deal has nothing to do with UA. In fact, I would say it really has nothing to do with *. This is merely a deal that benefits AC's mx operation. If HP were to leave * the mx deal would continue and AC would still benefit.
Now LH contributing to the merger financing would be a better indicator of HP's future in *. However, UA still has sole discretion over HP's alliance membership.