United/Delta Merger Rumors Take Off

Less than two years after receiving over $15 million in TIF money and fuel tax breaks, rumors are flying (heh) that United may merge with Delta, creating uncertainty if our hometown airline will remain based for the long term in its Wacker Drive digs, or if it will leave and take their 325 full-time jobs with them. Fortunately, as part of the financial deal, United's "successor entity" would be locked into the space for about another eight years. But after that, it's all up for grabs.

Delta currently has its eye on either United or Northwest Airlines, and if they do go the NWA route, United will then agressively pursue a merger with Continental instead. United CEO Glenn Tilton seems hellbent on taking advantage of "their global network, their massive hub at O'Hare International Airport and the fact that merging with either Continental or Delta would create a global power, sources say."

If the merger does happen with Delta, we vote they change the name to Delited™. It sure beats Unelta. [Trib]

Future Delited Terminal photo by bluemarla