American Airlines would become the world's biggest airline if its planned merger with US Airways is approved.  (Photo courtesy flickr/cliff1066)

By Eric Stock

BLOOMINGTON - American Airlines' planned merger with US Airways will likely make some flights more expensive, but Bloomington travel agent Tim Davis said it will be a positive for travelers.

"It will allow frequent fliers to now have access to more markets, more flights that will contribute back to their frequent flier accounts," Davis said. "I think from that perspective there's a lot of good things about this."

The two carriers announced the deal this morning, putting value of the merger at $11 billion.

Davis said the merger will stabilize American Airlines which has been under bankruptcy protection since late 2011. If it goes through, the new airline, still called American Airlines, would be the world's biggest airline.

The combined carrier will be called American Airlines and will rank as the world's biggest airline. The deal still needs approval by American's bankruptcy judge and antitrust regulators.

PODCAST: Listen to Davis' interview with Scott and Colleen on WJBC.

Eric Stock can be reached at eric.stock@cumulus.com.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.