The Delta Merger

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Overall, the pending merger of Delta and Northwest Airlines is good news for Salt Lake City and the region surrounding the capital city.

Foremost, the Salt Lake International Airport will continue to serve as a Delta hub.

The significance of being one of nine hub airports for what will become the world's largest carrier cannot be overstated. Salt Lake City customers, of course, will continue to have direct flights to many American cities, but it has the potential to increase accessibility to more international destinations. Especially intriguing is the prospect of a non-stop link to Asia through the combined airline's hub in Tokyo.

On the home front, the fact Delta's presence in Salt Lake will remain strong is good news for the airline's 3,500 Utah-based employees. They'll keep their jobs.

The downside of the merger is the possibility - some would say likelihood - of fare increases, especially on non-competitive routes. Fortunately, the continued presence of low-cost carriers such as Southwest and Jet Blue will provide options to many key destinations for Utah-based travelers.

In KSL's view, the merger, along with the expanded airline's commitment to Salt Lake City is welcomed news. It enhances the community's reputation as the Crossroads of the West, as well as the nation and increasingly, the world.