Exclusive | United Approached Delta Last Year About Merging Airlines

July 26, 2026 - 20:34

United Airlines Chief Executive Scott Kirby placed a call to Delta Air Lines' CEO last year to explore the possibility of merging the two carriers, according to people familiar with the discussions. The outreach, which was described as an initial and informal inquiry, did not lead to any serious negotiations or a formal proposal. The talks stalled quickly and never progressed beyond that early stage.

The approach comes as the airline industry continues to consolidate and battle over market share following the pandemic. United has been aggressive in expanding its network, particularly in international routes, while Delta has focused on premium services and operational reliability. A merger of the two would have created a massive airline, potentially reshaping the competitive landscape.

However, antitrust concerns would have posed a significant hurdle. Any deal between the country's second and third largest carriers would likely face intense scrutiny from regulators. Both airlines declined to comment on the matter. The news highlights the ongoing pressure on legacy carriers to find growth, even as they face rising costs and ongoing delivery delays from Boeing.