Airline Merge Will Impact ERI

February 14, 2013 - The largest airline company is formed merging American Airlines and US Arways.

Airport officials say travelers who fly through Erie won't be significantly affected, but it could create growth in and out of Erie.

The airport's executive director says after witnessing the last two mergers, this one could also create the potential for growth at the airport.

"The larger airline that resulted is maintains service at the airport, so we have the best of both worlds," said Chris Rodgers, Erie International Airport executive director. "We have more financially stable airlines and larger networks to choose from. On that side, a very positive outcome."

The vote on Wednesday solidified an $11 billion deal to create the world's largest carrier.

The airline will be called American Airlines and will be headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas.

"They are looking at this as a revenue opportunity as opposed to a few years ago mergers were looking at ways to cut costs and reduce competition," Rodgers said. "It's really a revenue opportunity for both. Meaning they're looking to carry more people."

Some travelers passing through the Erie International Airport are in favor of the merger, while other fear higher ticket prices"

"Historically, it's shown that when airlines merge together that prices of tickets have gone up as high as 20 percent," said Robert Spampani, from Seattle. "I'm not looking forward to seeing that, I really like the competition."

One traveler from Knoxville who was passing through Erie says airline companies do what they have to to survive.

"With the merger of Northwest and Delta not long ago I know they're in a competitive mode and I think it will improve air service more economic flight schedules."

Once the merger is complete, American will operate 900 planes.