Only 9 trans-Atlantic routes would share profits, compared with more than 30 in the initial plan.

That access will allow it to fly trans-Atlantic routes.

Return trips on trans-atlantic routes will start at £229 from October until the end of next March.

The airlines have also been offering bargain fares on trans-Atlantic routes.

Airlines make most of their money on trans-Atlantic routes in first and business class.

The trans-Atlantic routes are considered to be the most profitable of all, but the competition for customers is brutal.

Airlines are sharply cutting fares in business class on trans-Atlantic routes, too, he said.

In 1952 the cabin layout on northern trans-Atlantic routes was changed to one with a first and a tourist class.

Other carriers competing on the trans-Atlantic routes are expected to follow.

For all of last year, yields rose the most on trans-Atlantic routes (up 7.5 percent over 2004).