Merger Talk - Again

Is it because of the skyrocketing fuel costs? Labor costs? Competition from low cost airlines? Whatever the question the answer seems to be merger rumors - again. I am beginning to think it is a January theme. Last year, at around this time, there was talk of possible mergers between several airlines, and the chat is back.

So who are the players this time around? (hint, the picture accompanying the blog is spoken about the most in the merger possibilities) And why are mergers potentially on the airline industry's horizon?

I've written a piece that briefly discusses what elements are present now that may make mergers so enticing, and which airlines could be targeted for a merger - Airlines Talk Mergers - Rumors of Air Travel Industry Consolidation.

image courtesy of Arlene Fleming