41.   It says all the big airlines are back in the black and can well afford the levy.

42.   Joining the FAA in this opinion Wednesday was the Air Transport Association, which is the trade association of the big airlines.

43.   Last February the big airlines began imposing fuel surcharges to offset higher crude oil prices.

44.   KLM has also been looking for a partnership with another big European airline.

45.   Lately, Boeing is having a lot of success becoming the sole supplier of aircraft to big airlines.

46.   Most big airlines have been more cautious about capacity growth in recent years.

47.   Most other big airlines have refused to tip their hands yet.

48.   Moreover, all big airlines now have computer software to help them maximize revenues.

49.   Most of the other big airlines already have relationships with credit card companies.

50.   Most other big airlines already have announced major layoffs.