United Airlines pitches American merger

In a move that could fundamentally reshape the aviation industry, United Airlines is exploring a blockbuster merger with American Airlines.

CEO Scott Kirby proposed the consolidation as a way to better compete against foreign carriers on international routes, though critics warn it would lead to reduced competition and higher fees for domestic travelers.

The proposal comes at a time of extreme volatility for the sector, with jet fuel prices doubling due to the conflict in the Middle East.

Analysts suggest that while the Trump administration has been generally pro-deregulation, a merger of this scale would invite extraordinary pushback from labor unions and consumer advocacy groups.