Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines have moved one step closer to their planned merger, which was first announced in December 2023.
This week, the time period during which the parties were prohibited from closing under the Hart–Scott–Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act (HSR Act) has expired. This law states that parties must not complete mergers, acquisitions or transfers of securities or assets until they have made a filing with the U.S. Federal Trade Commission and Department of Justice and have waited for those agencies to determine that the transaction will not adversely affect U.S. commerce under antitrust laws.
Clearing this step comes as “a significant milestone in the process to join our airlines,” Alaska Airlines said in a statement this week.
That said, the government’s review is ongoing. The proposed merger remains subject to other customary closing conditions, including approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation. Following this step, the airlines will work to close the transaction and proceed with integrating the two companies.
In the interim, Alaska Airlines says it has been working with Hawaii’s attorney general “to reinforce and expand upon our commitments for the future of Hawaiian Airlines and to Hawaii consumers.” These include plans to maintain the Hawaiian Airlines brand and local jobs.
Said Hawaii Governor Josh Green: “The merger will vastly expand the number of destinations throughout North America for Hawaii residents that can be reached nonstop or one-stop from the islands, and HawaiianMiles members will retain the value of their miles while gaining access to more destinations around the world.
“I am confident that by the joining of these two airlines, a stronger company will emerge and offer more travel options for Hawaii residents and local businesses — and will enhance competition across the U.S. airline industry.”
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