# United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby confirmed Monday that he approached American Airlines to explore a possible merger.

*aerospace · news · 2026-04-27 · CBS News*

## Key points

- United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby confirmed he approached American Airlines about a potential merger.
- Kirby discussed the merger proposal with Trump administration officials before it became public.
- American Airlines publicly rejected any merger talks and stated no interest in discussions.
- Lawmakers from both parties criticized the possible merger for potentially harming industry competition.

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

[Read the full story on CBS News](https://www.cbsnews.com/news/united-airlines-american-airlines-merger-kirby/)

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