United and American Airlines Merger

Kirby pitched the idea as a solution to the intense economic pressures currently facing the airline sector, including soaring fuel costs and supply chain disruptions.

However, aviation experts warn that such a tie-up would face massive antitrust hurdles and could lead to significantly higher airfares for consumers.

The proposal comes at a time when the industry is already highly consolidated and under intense scrutiny from regulators.

While the business-friendly Trump administration might be receptive, the deal would likely trigger a prolonged legal and political battle.