Continental Airlines Case Analysis

Continental Airlines was a major United States airline founded in 1934 and eventually headquartered in Houston, Texas. It had ownership interests and brand partnerships with several carriers.

Continental started out as one of the smaller carriers in the United States, known for its limited operations under the regulated era. Post 1978, Continental grew into one of the country’s largest carriers despite facing financial troubles and other issues, eventually becoming one of the more successful airlines in the United States.

The airline merged with UAL Corporation (the parent company of United Airlines) via a stock swap in 2010. Continental’s shares were acquired by UAL Corporation; the re-organized holding company was renamed United Continental Holdings. During the integration period, each airline ran a separate operation under the direction of a combined leadership team, based in Chicago. The integration was completed on March 3, 2012. Although the merged airline retained the United name, it uses Continental’s operating certificate and livery.