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DOT Approves $1.9 Billion Alaska-Hawaiian Airlines Merger Under Alaska Air Group with Consumer Protections

Sep 17, 2024, 07:25 PM

The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) has granted approval for Alaska Airlines to proceed with its $1.9 billion acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines under Alaska Air Group's common ownership. The merger, which marks the first major U.S. airline merger in nearly a decade, is contingent on several consumer protection guarantees. These include maintaining key Hawaiian routes and preserving the value of frequent flyer miles and reward systems. Alaska CEO Ben Minicucci stated that the transaction is expected to close in the coming days. The DOT's decision contrasts with the Biden administration's previous opposition to other airline mergers.