Regulatory approval process continuing for Alaska Air Group and Virgin America
Alaska Air Group and Virgin America announced (16-May-2016) each carrier has received a request for additional information from the antitrust division of the US Department of Justice (DoJ), in connection with Alaska's proposed acquisition of Virgin America. Alaska and Virgin America said they have been cooperating fully with regulators since the announcement of the proposed acquisition, and pointed out a "second request," is a standard part of the DoJ review process. The carriers noted they will be responding promptly, and remain confident that they will obtain regulatory approval and complete their pro-competitive and pro-consumer transaction no later than 01-Jan-2017. The proposed acquisition is also subject to approval of Virgin America's shareholders in addition to the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions. [more - original PR]