Brussels, 20/08/2013 (Agence Europe) - On 5 August, the European Commission cleared the planned merger of US Airways and AMR Corporation (American Airlines' holding company), despite the monopoly that would emerge on the direct London-Philadelphia route, which the Commission will allow under certain conditions. EU Competition Commissioner Joaquín Almunia says: “the Commission could clear this transaction in the first phase given the commitments offered by the parties which address the competition concern we identified on the London-Philadelphia route. The commitments include a corresponding slot at London Heathrow as well as far-reaching feeder arrangements to induce entry by a new competitor on the route. We are therefore satisfied that the competitive dynamics will be maintained so as to ensure choice and quality of air services for passengers on this route.” (MD/transl.fl)