United CEO floated idea of United-American Airlines merger, sources say

TL;DR

United CEO Scott Kirby reportedly suggested a merger between United Airlines and American Airlines to Trump administration officials.
Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy hinted at the administration's openness to further aviation industry consolidation.
Kirby has previously spoken about the need for a stronger American airline to compete with foreign carriers on international routes.
A United-American merger would likely face scrutiny from regulators due to concerns about market share and potential cost increases for consumers.
United is also considering acquiring JetBlue if market conditions necessitate a sale.
The Allied Pilots Association finds the merger idea "intriguing" and a potential solution to American Airlines' management issues.
Industry experts consider a United-American merger unlikely, suggesting Kirby's comments may be a tactic to "put AA into play."

Continue reading the original article