The projected merger of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines has cleared a critical regulatory obstacle, ushering in a dramatic shift in the United States airline industry.
The United States Department of Justice (DOJ) has approved the proposed $2 billion merger, marking a significant step forward in the first major airline merger in nearly ten years.
The merger, which intends to increase travel alternatives from Hawaii to the mainland United States and strengthen Alaska Airlines’ worldwide presence, has come under increasing scrutiny for some time now. Nevertheless, the DOJ’s decision not to launch a lawsuit to halt the merger before the deadline means that the airlines can proceed.
“This is an important milestone for both companies and for travelers who will benefit from enhanced service options and increased competition,” said Alaska Airlines in a statement released late Monday.
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