Both companies have trouble turning a profit. I am an APNG shareholder (I know I know, a weak moment) and I am well aware of the company's financial status. AND the shortchanging of allowances when funds get tight! Wild family still are majority shareholders as the float did not sell as many shares as anticipated.
With the managerial nous shown by both previously, it wouldn't surprise me if they ended up hiring MORE staff and getting into more financial trouble!
I think the reality of the 'merger' may be a cutting down of office staff, check in, ground handling etc but overall the 2 companies will still run separately. It's just too much a a cluster %$#@ to do anything else and well beyond the capabilities of those involved. Sir Dennis wanted a merger all those years ago and I remember the trouble he had back then.