WASHINGTON, D.C. –Senator Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-Texas), the Ranking Member on the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, today released the following statement regarding the Department of Transportation’s tentative approval to allow Continental Airlines to join with the Star Alliance partners.

“This is a great day for Texas travelers, and I congratulate Continental CEO Larry Kellner and his team on all the hard work they put into this application and their commitment to remaining an independent Texas-based air carrier.  I look forward to this decision being finalized as soon as possible.  Secretary LaHood’s decision to grant tentative approval of the alliance, when finalized, will have a very positive impact on the competitive landscape of the airline industry and will improve travel access across our state and throughout the nation,” said Senator Hutchison.

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