That could take ages, particularly with NW. I hope both emerge, of course, but I think the real problem could be if the Democrats regain control of either house of congress (I think Representatives is more likely?); they'll be looking at ways of flexing their muscles and this could be one.
As you can appreciate, I look at the whole Open Skies issue from an Irish perspective and up to a while ago, the US was pushing us to move on this and then, just recently (after the announcement of FR's plan to move on EI - which, as you can imagine, must have gone down like a lead balloon with US carriers!) they were rather stand-offish, saying they'd rather wait until everyone had it. Can't help wondering if words were said; FR on t/a routes would upset a lot of people!