# Kirby says he approached American Airlines about a tie-up, but it's unclear whether that was before or after the White House meeting.

*business · news · 2026-04-27 · Fortune*

## Key points

- United CEO Kirby directly approached American Airlines about a merger, but American refused to engage.
- Kirby confirmed he intended to pitch the merger to American, not just the White House.
- American Airlines publicly stated a merger would harm competition and likely face antitrust issues.
- President Trump has publicly stated opposition to any merger between United and American Airlines.

**Companies:** American Airlines, United Airlines
**Countries:** United States

[Read the full story on Fortune](https://fortune.com/2026/04/27/united-airlines-ceo-says-proposed-merger-benefit-travelers-american/)

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