What’s Going On in UK Aviation: Mergers, Deals, and Partnerships

August 19, 2025

Let’s not sugarcoat it — the UK aviation industry is in a weird place right now. Behind the announcements, loyalty points, and polished branding, airlines are scrambling. Whether it’s about staying alive or getting ahead, mergers, partnerships, and backroom deals are reshaping the way we fly. Some of it makes sense. Some of it’s clearly desperate. But if you're trying to make sense of where your money's going — especially if you're chasing cheap business class flights — here's what you need to know.

The Industry's Not as Stable as It Looks

On the surface, it feels like things are “back to normal.” Planes are full again, lounges are busy, and Heathrow’s packed. But airlines are still recovering. They’re fighting rising fuel costs, staff shortages, airport chaos, and unpredictable travel patterns. The response? Team up or be left behind. That’s why we’re seeing a wave of strategic alliances and mergers across the UK aviation industry. Carriers want to cut costs, expand their networks, and protect themselves from the next crisis — whatever that ends up being.

British Airways and the Power Play

British Airways, under IAG (International Airlines Group), is sitting on a mountain of routes and partners. They already own Iberia, Aer Lingus, and Vueling, but they’re not done. Quietly, IAG is looking to scoop up more airlines — likely smaller European ones — to strengthen its grip on the skies. For the average traveller? It might mean better route options, but also fewer airlines to choose from. Less competition rarely equals lower fares. But when it comes to long-haul or cheap business class flights, BA’s size gives it negotiating power — and that can work in your favour, if you know where to look.

EasyJet: Looking for a Lifeline

EasyJet isn’t doing badly, but it’s definitely not cruising. With low-cost rivals like Ryanair and Wizz Air undercutting fares at every turn, EasyJet is under pressure. Talks of partnerships have come up — possibly with long-haul carriers or codeshare agreements. It makes sense. Budget short-haul connecting to premium long-haul? That combo has potential for price-conscious business travelers. But right now, it’s still a waiting game.

Virgin Atlantic: Still Swinging

Talking about the UK aviation industry, Virgin has always been the underdog — and right now, they’re using it to their advantage. With Delta and Air France-KLM in their corner (thanks to the SkyTeam alliance), they’ve rebuilt a solid transatlantic presence. What Virgin lacks in global coverage, it makes up for in experience. If you’re looking for cheap business class flights, Virgin still knows how to deliver comfort without going full luxury markup. It’s not cheap, but it’s often a better value than you’ll get elsewhere.

Smaller Players Making Quiet Moves

While big airlines make headlines, smaller regional carriers like Loganair are busy striking interline agreements to keep routes alive — especially for underserved areas across Scotland and the north. These deals might not be flashy, but they matter if you’re not flying out of London. And with the right combination of regional + long-haul flights, there are smart ways to save — especially when looking for premium tickets at economy prices.

Want Help Navigating It All?

We get it. Flight booking has become a full-time job. Between airline games, hidden fees, and vanishing deals, it’s exhausting. That’s where we come in. We keep tabs on the airlines, the deals, and the quiet changes most people miss. Contact us today and let us help you fly smarter — without overpaying, overthinking, or overcomplicating the experience. Also Read: British Airways Facing a Backlash, or is it just better than before?