British Airways, Iberia Sign Merger

Contributing Editor Carl Unger believes that every trip is worth taking. He loves an extended trip to Europe as much as he enjoys exploring the towns and landscape near home. Basically, you'll find him wherever there is good food, fresh air, and plenty of stories to bring home.

Carl has been writing for SmarterTravel since 2005. His travel writing has also appeared on USA Today and the About.com Boston travel guide.

The Handy Item I Always Pack: "It's not revolutionary, but a small Moleskine notebook is my one travel must-have. It's great for noting things you want to remember and it takes up hardly any space in your bag."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience: "Japan. I'd love to take a month off and visit the cities, temples, and countryside. I'm fascinated by the country's juxtaposition of ancient traditions and modern ambitions."

Travel Motto: “Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving.” –Terry Pratchett

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat: "Window."

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British Airways and Iberia have signed their merger agreement, which is expected to be completed by the end of the year. The result will be a new company, International Consolidated Airlines Group, under which the British Airways and Iberia brands will continue to operate.

According to the Times Online, “The merged group will have 408 aircraft flying to 200 destinations around the world carrying more than 58 million passengers per year. It is expected to have annual cost savings of €400 million (£350.8 million) by 2015.”

For U.S. citizens, the deal should maximize Iberia’s hub in Madrid, providing greater access—or at least another option—for travelers heading to Europe. The BBC reports that “the merger will also allow the company to compete more effectively with other European giants including Air France-KLM and Germany’s Lufthansa.”

British Airways, of course, is embroiled in an ongoing labor dispute with its cabin crew.

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