Industry News About US-AA Merger

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While I was away, more details have been released about the timeline of the merger.  The most important thing for eco-tourists to note is the date US leaves Star Alliance, especially if you have plans to visit Central America, South America or Australia/New Zealand.  Currently these zones are better served using a US Airways Dividend Miles award so you will want to book your trip by 30 March, 2014 so travel ends by 22 Feb, 2015.  You would still be able to use your US miles on One World airlines but these areas have better options with Star Alliance.

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US Airways to join oneworld on 31 March 2014

US Airways will join oneworld® with effect from 31 March 2014, following completion today of its merger with alliance founding member American Airlines.  All its regional affiliates, operating under the US Airways Express brand, will also transition to oneworld at the same time.
Their entry into oneworld with effect from the first flights on 31 March 2014 will follow immediately upon their exit from the Star Alliance with the final flights on 30 March 2014.  All parties are taking every effort to ensure that the alliance transition is as seamless as possible for customers.

US Airways to Leave Star Alliance March 30, Join Oneworld March 31, Begins Integration of Frequent Flyer Accounts

In a letter to employees, Parker said that customers will soon be able to earn and redeem rewards miles on both program.  The US Airways program, Dividend Miles, will eventually be merged into American’s AAdvantage program.  In addition, in early January, the AA code will be placed on all US Airways flights and vice versa, as the combined airline aligns its schedule.

Another significant change for customers will be the co-location of American and US Airways in airports, starting with its hubs.

In addition, US Airways said that it will continue numerous relationships with airlines in Star Alliance after it leaves at the end of March.  Flyers will be able to continue earn miles on the following airlines: Aegean, Air China, Air New Zealand, Avianca, Ethiopian Airlines, Eva, Shenzhen Airlines, Singapore Airlines, South African Airways, TAM, TAP, and Turkish Airways.