The Oneworld alliance is facing a crucial hurdle this year that is likely to determine its long-term prospects, as the U.S. Transportation Dept. considers the third antitrust immunity application from British Airways and American Airlines. The two carriers are lobbying hard for their joint venture, but the U.S. regulatory process is presenting new complications. British Airways Chairman Martin Broughton warns that the alliance could split up if BA's linkup with American does not get regulatory approval. "The most important deal [for BA] is the American deal," he told The Daily Telegraph. "It's worth a lot of money-hundreds of millions-and prevents the breakup of Oneworld." If American and BA are not able to coordinate fares and schedules going forward, "there has to be a big question mark over the future of Oneworld," Broughton says.
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