American Airlines has firmly rejected any merger discussions with United Airlines, citing antitrust risks and harm to competition. The statement on Friday ends speculation about a massive industry consolidation pitched by United CEO Scott Kirby to President Donald Trump in late February.
American emphasized that combining with United would reduce competition and raise fares for consumers, clashing with the Trump administration’s antitrust stance. A merged entity would operate 2,874 aircraft and generate $114 billion in annual revenue, dwarfing Delta’s $63.4 billion and 1,314 planes.
This super-carrier would control about one-third of the US market, triggering opposition from regulators, unions, consumer advocates, and rivals. No formal talks occurred, American confirmed, dimming prospects for the deal despite Kirby’s outreach to senior officials.
The rejection underscores ongoing regulatory hurdles in aviation M&A, even under a pro-business administration. It preserves current market dynamics, protecting passengers from potential pricing power concentration while highlighting airlines’ strategic caution amid consolidation pressures.