Alaska-Hawaiian Merger Clears DOJ Review Period

DALLAS — The U.S. Department of Justice has completed its regulatory review of the proposed merger between Alaska Airlines (AS) and Hawaiian Airlines (HA) under the HSR Act, marking a significant step forward in the merger process.

This merger is unique in that both airlines will continue to operate under separate brands, though their frequent flyer programs will be combined. As such, the Seattle-based airline collaborated with the Hawai‘i Attorney General to ensure the preservation of the Hawaiian Airlines brand, local jobs, and continued service to and from Hawai‘i.

The merger still requires approval from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and other closing conditions. Once approved, AS plans to integrate the two companies, expanding travel options and benefits for consumers in Hawai‘i, the Asia-Pacific region, the continental U.S., and globally.

Hawaiian Governor Josh Green expressed confidence in the merger, highlighting that it will expand travel options for Hawai‘i residents, preserve union jobs, and enhance competition in the U.S. airline industry.

In a Nov. 17 interview, Hawaiian Airlines CEO Peter Ingram told Airways how punctuality by way of rigorous inter-island operations enabled a cargo contract with Amazon. Ingram also detailed opportunities coming with the 2024 arrival of Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners while hinting at the future of the airline's aging but essential Boeing 717s.

A little over two weeks later, AS would acquire the Hawaiian carrier. You can check out the interview here. Additionally, in episode 15, season 4 of the Airways Podcast, our hosts discuss Alaska Air Group's plans to buy HA, in what could be the next instance of consolidation among US airlines.

The Seattle-based airline group will purchase Hawaiian Holdings for US$18 per share in a deal valued at US$1.9 billion, including Hawaiian's debt. Alaska is the sixth-largest airline in the US by seats, while Hawaiian is the tenth-largest.