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United, Delta Reject Mergers, Focus on Partnerships

6/8/2026

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Summary

Kirby Rejects Merger

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby said United will not pursue a merger after American Airlines rejected the proposal.
At the IATA meeting in Brazil, Kirby said further U.S. airline consolidation looks unlikely.
Kirby also ruled out buying JetBlue, calling the deal economically unsound.
Delta Air Lines President Peter Carter said Delta will not seek mergers, focusing on partnerships and the trans-Pacific market against United.

Summary

United Raises Fares

United expects to raise fares this year to recoup the full fuel-price hit.
Kirby said United may buy slots or gates if rising fuel costs squeeze rivals.
Kirby said United’s profit, not its balance sheet, lets the airline keep investing while peers break even and demand stays strong.
Kirby dismissed hedging ineffective and said United will not buy a refinery and is unlikely to pursue JetBlue if it enters Chapter 11.

Summary

Kirby Demands Competition

Kirby urged Boeing and Airbus never to build an aircraft with a single-engine option, insisting competition is required.
He placed General Electric at the top of his list, saying it is working hard on development, and described Pratt & Whitney’s challenges as sincere and genuine.
He said Rolls Royce is the only supplier “in my doghouse” and framed the comments as part of a push for a more resilient aircraft supply chain.

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Kirby Rejects Merger

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby said United will not pursue a merger after American Airlines rejected the proposal.
At the IATA meeting in Brazil, Kirby said further U.S. airline consolidation looks unlikely.
Kirby also ruled out buying JetBlue, calling the deal economically unsound.
Delta Air Lines President Peter Carter said Delta will not seek mergers, focusing on partnerships and the trans-Pacific market against United.

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