Why it matters
Affects 3 airline programs (American Airlines, JetBlue, United Airlines). Relevant for Accor Live Limitless elites and award redeemers.
What happened
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has floated the idea of a combination with American Airlines Group Inc., pitching the concept to senior government officials. While no actual deal process is confirmed, the proposition faces intense scrutiny even under a business-friendly administration. Kirby, a former president of American Airlines, has strong personal ties to the carrier. A merger would likely lead to higher airfares and route shedding, creating a monopoly on travel to Latin America. The article also notes that a United-JetBlue acquisition is considered more plausible for regaining JFK access. If the American deal proceeds, the combined loyalty program might be branded as MileageAdvantage
Sources cited · 1
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