From CNBC: 2024-08-20 01:10:53

Alaska Airlines has obtained clearance from the U.S. Justice Department for its $1.9 billion agreement to acquire Hawaiian Airlines. Now, they await approval from the U.S. Transportation Department for the deal to close, making it the largest U.S. carrier merger since Alaska and Virgin America combined eight years ago.

Previous DOJ court rulings blocked JetBlue’s acquisition of Spirit Airlines and a partnership with American Airlines. Hawaiian Airlines faced challenges like Maui wildfires and increased competition from Southwest Airlines, leading to net losses since early 2020. However, executives note improved booking trends, with Hawaiian’s shares up almost 12% this quarter.

The two airlines plan to maintain separate brands post-merger but will operate under a single platform, boasting a combined fleet of over 360 aircraft serving 130+ destinations. Both the Justice Department and Transportation Department have yet to comment on the merger’s progress.



Read more at CNBC: Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines merger clears Justice Department hurdle, now faces DOT