Originally Posted by Traveloguy

SQ definitely does not own the rights to the Virgin name. That is actually how Branson makes his money is by licensing it out. It is also the reason that DJ could not start International flights using the Virgin Blue name due to licensing issues. Remember that Branson does not actually own many of the brands that bear his company name these days - he simply sets up businesses, markets them well and then flogs them off and retains rights to the name. Businesses buying them have rights to use his name as long as royalties are paid and certain other conditions are met.

Also I think there is more spin than fact in that *A want DJ as part of their alliance. DJ whilst getting close to being a FSC is still not quite there and until that happens I doubt anyone will talk to them. Codeshares with UA does not count and neither do Frequent Flyer Programme tieups with EK et al. I think the ownership links between companies is more important!

EK's has a part stake in UL and as EK sees itself becoming the new SQ, I can't see those two deciding to get into bed with each other.