American Airlines and US Airways to mount 'vigorous and strong' defence of proposed merger

American Airlines and US Airways stated (13-Aug-2013) they will mount a "vigorous and strong" defence of their merger, after the US Department of Justice (DoJ) filed an antitrust lawsuit seeking to block the merger in the US District Court for the District of Columbia. The companies stated: "We believe that the DoJ is wrong in its assessment of our merger. Integrating the complementary networks of American and US Airways to benefit passengers is the motivation for bringing these airlines together. Blocking this pro-competitive merger will deny customers access to a broader airline network that gives them more choices. Further, this merger provides the best outcome for AMR's restructuring. The widespread support from the employees and financial stakeholders of both airlines underscores the fact that this is the best path forward for both airlines and the customers and communities we serve. We will mount a vigorous defence and pursue all legal options in order to achieve this merger and deliver the benefits of the new American to our customers and communities as soon as possible." US Airways CEO Doug Parker said: "In light of today's announcement, the companies no longer expect the merger to close during the third quarter of 2013. However, we are hopeful that the litigation will be successfully concluded and we will close the merger before year end." The carriers added: "American and US Airways will continue to operate as independent companies and competitors. All recent leadership announcements for the new merged American will be on hold until such time as the merger receives final clearance." [more - original PR - Joint Statement] [more - original PR - AA] [more - original PR - AA - II] [more - original PR - US Airways]