Image Source: Bloomberg BY MADISON MACK  ANCHOR JAMAL ANDRESS   It’s only a matter of time until US Airways and American Airlines merge to become the largest airline in the United States The boards of both companies agreed on the merger Wednesday ending what the New York Times calls “a year long courtship.” But before the merger is official it still needs to pass through a few hoops. It will need to be approved by -American Airline's bankruptcy judge -US Airways shareholders (who would hold a 28% stake in the new company) -and the Justice Department’s antitrust division If everything goes the way most analysts predict the Wall Street Journal says the merger will bring some stability to a long troubled airline industry. “Four airlines now control about 83% of domestic seats meaning fewer airline choices but perhaps greater reliability for travelers and investors.” But what does this all mean for the consumer? The Detroit Free Press says it means price hikes. “Higher fares because of less competition. … . The U.S. is poised to have only four big airlines left, down from seven 3 years ago … We’re not going to see cheaper fares, although there may be some initial sales. But USA Today points to a recent study conducted by a professional services firm that found the mergers of Delta - Northwest and United - Continental didn’t result in any price hikes. They also note... “...proponents of "consolidation" argue that creating a third big "global" U.S. airline could actually help keep fares in check by preventing United and Delta from becoming a duopoly that can dictate fares.” The full details of the merger will be released after the official announcement Thursday morning.