JetBlue and Spirit End $3.8 Billion Merger Amid Antitrust Concerns

The termination follows a federal judge's ruling against the deal, leaving both airlines to navigate financial challenges independently.

JetBlue Airways and Spirit Airlines have terminated their proposed $3.8 billion merger, following a federal judge's ruling that blocked the deal due to antitrust concerns.
The termination of the merger leaves both airlines facing significant financial challenges, with Spirit and JetBlue losing $1.9 billion and $2.2 billion respectively since the start of 2020.
The Justice Department hailed the decision as a victory for consumers, emphasizing the merger would have led to higher fares and fewer choices for travelers.
The collapse of the deal raises questions about the future of other airline mergers, including Alaska Airlines' proposed purchase of Hawaiian Airlines.
Both airlines are now focusing on independent strategies to return to profitability, including cost-cutting measures and renegotiating contracts with pilots.