[jimworcs]

I do object to the consolidation that is taking place in Europe too. The only difference is that airlines are regulated in Europe, so there are some consumer protection laws. If the airlines in the US were regulated to prevent them from distorting market forces and abusing their monopoly positions, I would object less. For example, BA is blocked from any expansion in LHR, so cannot get any more slots because it's position at LHR is too dominant and BAA is being broken up and its fees are capped. That is an example of robust regulation. Incidently, BA's share of the slots at LHR is 35% which is considerably lower than most "fortress hubs". We also have enforceable consumer rights.