In recent weeks the US authorities have asked for more information regarding the partnership between British Airways and American Airlines, but the UK carrier remains “confident” that the application will pass.

After BA was asked to provide more information on the alliance by the US Department of Transport, some analysts predicted that the alliance was set to be dropped.

Additionally, a seemingly reluctant Iberia who appeared to be licking its wounds after being left out of the loop in relation to a possible merger with Qantas, seemed to stall BA’s consolidation talks.

But Willie Walsh, BA CEO seems adamant that both deals will be closed, and even hints at more to come.

“I’m confident about both proposals,” said Mr Walsh.

In relation to the AA deal in particular he adds, “The environment is very different today to last time and there has been no great opposition from the industry in the U.S.”

On the topic of consolidation, he appeared to allude to even more mergers to come, “There’s no shortage of airlines that are available to acquire...I could go out this afternoon and buy half a dozen. I get calls all the time from chief executives saying: ‘please come and buy us’.”

Despite there having been no great opposition from the industry in the US, Air France and Virgin Atlantic have been vocal opponents against the BA/AA tie-up.