Once Northwest and Delta tied the knot it was all over for United staying independent. Continental brought a huge fleet (and orders) of 737's, 787's, newer 777's and 757/767's to the party! I remember non-revving on a United 757 and was amazed at the ancient technology in the cabins, like the single video screen and pneumatic headsets. United had parked their 737's, the Airbus were getting long in the tooth and the 777's and 747's were on their last legs. Both parties brought pros and cons to the merger but I'm amazed that this debate still rages 10 years on. The merger was succesful and the Continental group never received any greater windfall than the United pilots.