United CEO pitched American Airlines merger to Trump: sources

Published: 2026-04-14 05:00:23 ET AAL

Published on 04/14/2026 at 05:00 am EDT

STORY: :: American Airlines

The CEO of United Airlines pitched a potential merger with American Airlines in a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump.

:: File

That's according to two Reuters sources, who said it happened on February 25, when Scott Kirby argued to administration officials that a combined airline would be a stronger competitor in international markets.

The United CEO said back in September that two-thirds of long-haul seats to and from the United States are on foreign carriers, but 60% of passengers are U.S. citizens.

:: United Airlines

It was not clear whether United has made any formal approach to American or whether a process was underway.

:: American Airlines

Both companies declined to comment, while the White House did not respond to requests for a response.

:: United Airlines

A combination of two of the largest U.S. network carriers would mark the biggest consolidation move for the sector in more than a decade.

:: American Airlines

But industry officials said the chances of a deal winning approval would be slim, citing opposition from unions, rival airlines, lawmakers and airports.

One person close to the White House said there was skepticism about such a tie-up, given its potential impact on competition and ticket prices.

American shares rose more than 5% in after-hours trading following the report, while United shares were little changed.