Well, this morning’s news about deals in the works between US Airways and the unions representing the majority of employees of American Airlines surely turned a lazy Friday on its head. I don’t comment on the viability of mergers, airline business plans, or anything else semi-controversial as a matter of practice. Not that I can’t, just that I don’t…and I have my reasons. That said, watch this one closely. I’ve predicted it for at least 3 years in private conversations. Could a three-way deal between US, BA and the money people known as TPG be in the offing, only time will tell. And no, I don’t know anything. Just speculating.

For what it’s worth, I don’t think a business combination between US and AA is the end of the world as we know it. In fact, I’ve often wondered what a bunch of outside the box thinkers might be able to accomplish with just such a franchise. I think I’ll pour myself another glass of cab, light a cigar, and watch with great interest. This could be an enlightening adventure for all of us.