Richard Anderson Says “Not So Fast”

Late reports out now have Delta’s CEO Richard Anderson saying, “There have been no talks with United regarding any type of consolidation transaction and there are no such ongoing discussions.”

Hmmmm. So who decided to stir up the pot and why?

Inquiring minds want to know.

Interesting comment from Anderson, especially considering an earlier statement from the airline this morning. This morning, Delta said that it had formed a special board committee to review “strategic options.” Or, as it put it, “to ensure Delta maintains its leadership position in the airline industry, including potential consolidation transactions.”

Delta said that non-executive Chairman Daniel Carp is leading the committee.

So why did the airline say this — after news of the Pardus letter broke — if there is nothing going on? And why then did Richard come out and take the position that “there have been no talks with United regarding any type of consolidation.”

We’re definitely hearing some static here.

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