Air New Zealand and Virgin Blue given more time to respond to ACCC decision

Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) extended Air New Zealand and Virgin Blue's deadline to respond to its preliminary decision to block their proposed trans-Tasman alliance (Radio New Zealand, 28-Sep-2010). The carriers now have until 11-Oct-2010 to make their submissions, after they requested an extension from the original deadline of last week to prepare information and meet ACCC representatives to discuss its concerns. The ACCC plans to make its final decision on the alliance by 20-Dec-2010.