# “I approached American about exploring a combination because I thought we could do something incredible for customers together,” he said.

*business · news · 2026-04-27 · Washington Examiner*

## Key points

- United CEO Scott Kirby initiated merger talks with American Airlines, which American flatly rejected.
- Kirby argued that a United-American merger could address the U.S. long-haul market deficit versus foreign carriers.
- American CEO Robert Isom cited antitrust concerns as the primary reason for dismissing merger discussions.
- Proponents believe United-American combined scale would enhance global competitiveness and increase U.S. jobs.
- President Trump opposed the merger, expressing concerns it could reduce competitive drive between the airlines.

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

[Read the full story on Washington Examiner](https://www.washingtonexaminer.com/news/business/4544016/united-ceo-merger-american-airlines/)

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