VS and LH merger

I was reading on another website about a VS/LH merger. I did also read something in the Sunday Times a few months back about this. has anyone else heard anything?

I haven't heard this rumour and would be shocked if it ever happened.

I would be tempted to say that is nothing more than the a poor rumour. I think it is important to remember the following:

1. SRB is unlikely to ever give up his controlling stake in VS.

2. What would LH gain? They would gain LHR slots but surely if that is what they want it would be much better to launch a take over of BD, an airline which they already have a stake in.

SQ, despite rumours around 6 months ago, are very happy with the way in which VS is operating. SRB is happier than ever and thus I just don't think it will ever happen.

I wonder if it's LH being touted as a buyer of SQ's 49%?

As well as wholly owning Swiss, LH tactically invest in a number of other airlines, e.g. BMI, JetBlue, etc.

Don't know if the Airbus fleet moving to getting heavy maint done by Lufthansa Technik (in Manila) is a sign or not? My guess is that LHT had both hangar space at the right time and a competitive price, rather than it being a signal about increased co-operation between VS and LH.

Mike

Originally posted by mike-smashing
I wonder if it's LH being touted as a buyer of SQ's 49%?

As well as wholly owning Swiss, LH tactically invest in a number of other airlines, e.g. BMI, JetBlue, etc.

It is also worth noting that recently all of LH's attention has been on the merging of Germanwings and Tuifly into LH.

It could well be the 49% stake but then again SQ have stated they are happy with VS and tbh the fit is excellent.

Originally posted by willd
It could well be the 49% stake but then again SQ have stated they are happy with VS and tbh the fit is excellent.

What? Singapore Airlines have publicly announced that they are UNHAPPY with Virgin Atlantics performance, & only delayed plans to sell the stake due to the current financial turmoil in the worlds markets.

http://business.timesonline.co.uk/tol/b ... 708785.ece

Frankly, this is only a good move. I'd like to see a red tail (not just Qantas) hitting the tarmac in Singapore & V Australia to get on without interference...

I can't see VS merging with LH but it could be an opportunity for them to collaborate on the open sky's deal and spread the financial risk based on an all business class airline concept.