Alaska Airlines Finalizes Hawaiian Airlines Acquisition
The $1.9 billion purchase was completed on Wednesday solidifying Alaska Airlines as the fifth largest U.S. carrier by revenue.
Alaska Airlines has completed its $1.9 billion purchase of Hawaiian Airlines, the carrier announced in a press release Wednesday.
With the merger complete, Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines are working toward obtaining a single operating certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration, enabling them to operate as a single carrier with an integrated passenger service system. Both airlines plan to maintain their names.
"This is a historic day for Alaska Airlines as we officially join with Hawaiian Airlines," Alaska Air Group CEO Ben Minicucci said. "Alaska and Hawaiian share tremendous pride in connecting communities with award-winning service, and we look forward to inviting more guests on board to experience what makes both brands unique."
The release noted that Alaska Airlines is now the fifth largest airline in the U.S. by revenue, boasting a fleet of 350 aircraft and employing over 33,000 people across North America, Asia and the Pacific.
The acquisition, initially announced in December, recently received approval from the Department of Justice. As part of the agreement, Alaska and Hawaiian would have to meet certain conditions, including consumer protections and maintaining current service levels between Hawaii and the mainland, where competition is limited.
