US Airways and American Airlines announced a merger this week. (AFP PHOTO/Jim WATSON)

American Airlines and US Airways say customers can continue to collect frequent flyer miles and that existing points will also be honoured following Thursday's merger announcement.

Until the merger between the two airlines is complete in the third quarter of this year, American Airlines and US Airways will continue to operate as separate carriers -- meaning business as usual for customers.

That means that travelers can continue to book, manage and redeem points on their respective airlines.

When the two airlines fly under the American Airlines banner later this year, it will become the largest airline in the world.

In their announcement, the airlines also pointed out that the merger means customers will have access to an expanded network of 6,700 flights daily to 336 destinations in 56 countries.

The new airline will continue to be part of the global Oneworld Alliance.

Plans to modernize and expand the fleet include the addition of an Airbus aircraft, Boeing 777-300ER service to London, lie-flat First and Business Class seats on transcontinental routes, and increased wi-fi service.

For more info, visit www.aa.com/arriving and the FAQ page.


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