Two of the world's top airlines, United and Continental, have announced their merger into one all-encompassing airline that will be able to offer better service on a global scale, better benefits to employees, and higher profits for stockholders. Customer benefits will include 10 hubs globally, superior service to small- and medium-sized communities, service to 370 destinations in 59 countries, the best technology and air crafts, and the best frequently flyer program available. More than 144 million passengers will be serviced annually.

The merger will see the president and CEO of UAL Corp, Glenn Tilton, as non-executive officer of the new board of directors until the latter of the second anniversary of closing or December 31, 2010 at which time Jeff Smisek, president, CEO, and chairman of Continental Airlines, will take over the role as executive chairman. This board will have 16 members representing both airlines equally and will include the union directors from the two airlines as per United Airline's charter.