The Merge: United/Continental (Howe: closing, legal, clubs)

[ShelbyGirl1]

Just received this as a e-mail:

Dear ,

We are pleased to announce that we have completed the legal closing of the merger with United Airlines®. We can now begin our journey to create the world's leading airline.

As a loyal Continental customer, you might be wondering what this means for you. For now, it's business as usual. Each airline and frequent flyer program will continue to operate separately. Rest assured, the merger won't affect miles in your account or your elite status:

• Both United® Mileage Plus® and Continental OnePass® miles and programs remain unchanged. You will continue to receive all current benefits, and you will earn miles, points and segments as usual. You will also continue to be able to earn and use miles on 28 Star Allianceâ„¢ airline partners.
• When flying Continental, you should continue to use continental.com or contact a Continental customer service representative for any assistance you might need. For flight check-in use continental.com, Continental kiosks or Continental ticket counters at the airport.
• When flying United, you should continue to use united.com or contact a United customer service representative for any assistance you might need. For flight check-in use united.com, United kiosks or United ticket counters at the airport.
• Red Carpet Club® and Presidents Club® members will continue to enjoy access to each other's lounge network, as well as to Star Alliance network and affiliated lounges around the world. Also, beginning today, Red Carpet Clubs offer free wireless Internet access and a selection of complimentary alcoholic beverages.

Coming later this month, elite members will enjoy reciprocal access to complimentary elite upgrades and preferred economy seating on United and Continental flights. United elite members will have access to Continental's preferred seating, and Continental elite members will have access to United's Economy Plus® seating.

Integrating two airlines is complex. We expect the full integration of United and Continental to take between 12 and 18 months. However, during that time, you will see improvements in your travel experience, and we are committed to making the new United your carrier of choice. We'll keep you informed of our progress through e-mail and on our websites. More information, including FAQs, is available at continental.com.

This is an exciting time for all of us, and we look forward to serving you as the world's leading airline. Sincerely,

Jeff Smisek
President and
Chief Executive Officer
United Airlines