The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission has confirmed that it has told Qantas it can enter negotiations with Air New Zealand and Ansett Airlines about possible solutions to Ansett's current difficulties.
"The ACCC understands that similar negotiations will be occurring between Air New Zealand and Ansett and other parties", ACCC Chairman, Professor Allan Fels, said today.
"The ACCC has had discussions with the parties and considered there was a risk that Ansett may cease trading.
"The interests of the various parties involved are very much in the ACCC's mind, including consumers who hold current tickets and the employees and suppliers of Ansett.
"Today's action by the ACCC should allow Ansett to continue to operate in the immediate future, including honouring its tickets.
"The ACCC has not given Qantas the go-ahead to acquire any of Ansett's assets but the ACCC will consider any proposals, from any parties, that are brought forward.
"No such formal proposals have been submitted.
"The ACCC appreciates the reality of the seriousness of the situation and will consider any proposals expeditiously".