British Airways, American Airlines close to deal

British Airways (BA) has said it is hopeful that a deal with American Airlines will soon be completed.

The agreement would see the two carriers working more closely together to try to cut costs in areas such as technology, ticketing, and administration.

Willie Walsh, BA's Chief Executive, told The Times that he expected final preparations for the deal to be complete within a fortnight.

An application to U.S. regulators would follow shortly afterwards.

"We want to move on this as soon as possible," he said.

This is the third time BA has sought an alliance with the carrier.

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