Though, too often, quotes in the press are either truncated, or lost in translation. Hence, here I share with you many more quotes I had been asked for, and sent out to various press outlets. I think they give a unique insight into the United/Continental merger.

On the brand change to United: Though both brands are globally recognized, I personally would have preferred to see the Continental brand survive, because they’ve done a fantastic job of resurrecting the brand over the years, while United has struggled with its re-branding efforts. As long as the name change doesn’t degrade Continental’s product or service, I think customers would be happy to move on.

On the executive appointments: It’s good for the airline in the long term, that Jeffery Smisek becomes the key executive, because he has a proven record as someone who can improve the airline, and please customers as well as shareholders. Moreover, Glen Tilton had publicly stated that his aim was to successfully lead an exit strategy for United Airlines, which this deal accomplishes. Hence, it’s only natural that he gradually shifts into a non-executive role.

On the HQ move to Chicago: A lot of Continental employees may be forced to move from Houston to Chicago, and many may forgo that option. It will also be difficult to retain the Texas culture at the company, which is cherished internally. There’s hard work ahead for the management in order to please the internal stakeholders.

On the impact on the passenger: Customers are likely to see fares rise on overlapping routes, like Houston to Chicago or Washintong DC. Ancillary fees may increase too, in the long term. Though, the frequent fliers wouldn’t have to worry much, as due to Star Alliance, both United’s and Continental’s frequent flier programs are quite similar now.

On what this means for future airline mergers in the US: The second merger of this scale in 24 months in the US is bound to put pressure on other independent airlines, like American and US Airways. Though, I don’t foresee these two merging, because of the huge overlap in routes. I wouldn’t be surprised if we see mergers in the low-cost arena, like Southwest getting in bed with AirTran, or even American Airlines cozying up further to JetBlue!

On impact on Asia: United already has a strong network in Asia-Pacific, and Continental’s presence in key markets like Japan and India will only make it a strong competitor against rivals like Delta. Though, in order to have any chance of acing against Asian carriers, the new airline will have to drastically up its game in terms of service, product and brand strategy.

So, what do you think about the merger? Would it be beneficial to the flying public? Would the combined airline be able to turn a profit? Let’s discuss in the comments or over on Twitter (@simpliflying)

• SimpliFlying in The Media: FinanceAsia, USA Today and Aviation Security International
• Feeling Like a Proud Dad as United Clarifies its Twitter Account :)
• The Perfect Wedding? Will United Airlines and US Airways pull up their socks when Continental joins Star Alliance?
• Conde Nast Traveler 2008 airline rankings prove that product is the brand
• Will Delta and Northwest merger bring back the glory of Pan-Am?

I love Fall weddings! The bustle of summer is gone and the holidays are still a distant thought. You can relax and enjoy the ceremony letting your thoughts turn to the blissful life ahead for the new couple. Even bridesmaid dresses look good against mesh of Fall colors in the background.

So why am I so disappointed about Continental taking their vows and joining the Star Alliance family on October 27th? It is the one time in my life I want to be the guy who stands up on a pew and shouts.. “Stop the Wedding”.

Star Alliance is clearly marrying up as Continental has the best product and service of all the major US carriers. Customers flying in on carriers such as Singapore and Air New Zealand can finally connect on a domestic Star Alliance Member (Continental) who knows that product, service, and accountability are the cornerstones of delivering on brand promise.

My chief concern about the pending union is the domestic company Continental will be keeping with United and USAir. I can’t imagine a greater disparity in service. I relayed my concerns to a Continental representative at a recent industry trade show to which they responded, “Well, we are hoping that our joining Star Alliance will help bring the level of service up on the other US partners.” Speaking from personal experience, if I had a dollar for every person I know that hoped their partner habits and quirks would change after the vows. I’d be a rich man. As a frequent traveler moving to a United hub, I pray this partnership will be the exception to the rule.

The good news for United customers is they will be able to use their status when flying on Continental. Premier members will find out all the things they are missing like automatic upgrades, the newest fleet of planes, and having your luggage be first off the plane. The commitment to excellence extends beyond the first class cabin to once extinct amenities like free meals at meal time, pillows, blankets, and direct TV. The brand promise begins at check-in, continues to the back of the plane, and onto the luggage carousel before you leave. Like the Virgin brands, they don’t forget their job is to create an exceptional experience.

Great brands create an emotional response and nothing creates emotions better than a wedding. With that in mind, a wise person once shared the following advice with me. “The most important thing to remember about a planning a wedding is that the Big Day isn’t about you. It’s about the people who are experiencing it with you. Focus on making the people comfortable and happy, yes even that embarrassing uncle.. and the day will be perfect.”

Darren Dunn is currently Director of Sales at WorldMate Inc. The World’s leading travel management application for smart phones. He has spent 13 years in the online marketing space working with destinations and travel suppliers around the globe. He flies about 150,000 + miles a year and appreciate airlines that are passionate about service and culture.

• Thoughts on the United and Continental merger – as quoted in the press
• Will a bloated Star Alliance result in a branding nightmare?
• Mexicana must understand that traditional rules of airline branding do not work any longer
• SimpliFlying in The Media: FinanceAsia, USA Today and Aviation Security International
• Conde Nast Traveler 2008 airline rankings prove that product is the brand