A judge Wednesday approved the merger of American Airlines and US Airways, dpa reported. US bankruptcy judge Sean Lane in Manhattan said the merger was a "terrific result." The 11-billion-dollar mega deal will form the world's largest carrier and operate under the American Airlines brand. The shareholders of American Airlines, which has been under bankruptcy protection, will own 72 per cent in the joint company, while US Airways will hold 28 per cent. The new airline will operate 1,500 aircraft, with 600 more on order, and have an annual turnover of almost 39 billion dollars. It will offer more than 6,700 daily flights to 336 destinations in 56 countries and maintain all hubs now served by either carrier, while being a member of the Oneworld alliance. "The combined airline will have the scale, breadth and capabilities to compete more effectively and profitably in the global marketplace," said Doug Parker, the outgoing cheif executive of US Airways, in February when the deal was announced.
