United Airlines Explores Potential Tie-Up with American Airlines

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby raised the possibility of a merger with American Airlines during a meeting with Donald Trump in late February, according to sources cited by David Shepardson and Rajesh Kumar Singh for Reuters.

A merger between United and American Airlines would face substantial regulatory scrutiny, particularly on antitrust grounds. (Photo: United Facebook)

A combination of two of the largest US carriers would represent the most significant airline consolidation in more than a decade, further concentrating a market already dominated by four major players.

Based on 2025 data, United and American rank among the world’s largest airlines by available seat capacity.

The discussion reportedly took place on February 25 during a White House meeting that also focused on the future of Washington Dulles International Airport.

Industry observers note that such a merger would face substantial regulatory scrutiny, particularly on antitrust grounds.

Proponents argue that a combined airline could better compete internationally, where long-haul routes are often dominated by foreign carriers. News of the potential tie-up lifted shares of both airlines in premarket trading.