Officials with the Shreveport Regional Airport say the price of oil is more likely to make airline ticket prices increase for travelers than the expected merger between Delta and Northwest airlines.
Some members of Congress are blasting the proposed merger of Delta and Northwest. House Transportation Committee chairman James Oberstar says the
plan to create the largest airline in the world is the worst development in aviation history since deregulation 30 years ago. And the head of the aviation subcommittee, Jerry Costello, warns that consumers won't like the effect.
Both he and Oberstar warn it could force other airlines into mergers that would create "three global mega carriers." They say low-cost airlines wouldn't be able to compete.
The CEOs of both Delta and Northwest will defend the proposed deal at a House hearing next week.
Senators want to see how the merger would affect service to smaller cities and rural areas.
Congress has little power to stop the transaction and most experts believe the Justice Department will approve it.
;)
