These route maps came from the in-flight magazine. Continental was the best positioned U.S. legacy carrier coming out of the 2000-03 period of turbulence. During this time, it operated what was briefly the world's longest airline flight Newark to Hong Kong. CO continued with its extraordinary expansion throughout Europe. During this period, Continental also continuously ranked at the top of ratings for customer satisfaction. By 2006, rumors began to circulate of a merger with United. Following Delta and NW's merger announcement in 2008, the talks intensified with serious discussions with United and then American. Discussions have since moved from merger to possible alliance.