British Airways has dropped its strongest hint yet that its proposed merger with Iberia is imminent, saying there is only one outstanding issue to be resolved before the deal can proceed.Chief executive Willie Walsh confirmed a number of hurdles had been overcome, including the BA’s pension deficit and the chairman and chief executive roles. Most importantly, the share of ownership has also been agreed - this was earlier seen which as the biggest challenge due to the recent slump in BA’s share price, leading to Iberia pushing for an equal equity split.

British Airways is planning to merge with Qantas before Iberia, according to The Times.The deal would involve the creation of a dual-listed corporate structure between itself and Qantas, followed by the merger with Iberia.