US Airways and United Airlines are reportedly in deep discussions over a possible merger according to media reports from the US, although any formal announcement is likely to be some weeks off.
According to an article in the New York Times citing “people briefed in the matter”, the two airlines are working on setting a management structure, as well as industrial relations issues. Nevertheless, spokespeople for both airlines have declined to comment on the reports.
US Airways and United proposed a merger in 2000 which was thwarted after objections from the US Department of Justice. This was followed by months of negotiations in 2008 which also came to naught. United has also previously pursued merger negotiations with fellow Star Alliance partner Continental Airlines, although these have also come to nothing so far.
