United, American Airlines Stocks Jump on Merger

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby floated a possible merger with American Airlines, according to Bloomberg sources.
American Airlines shares rose over 4% in pre‑market trading, while United Airlines gained about 2% after the report.
The carriers, the 2nd and 4th largest U.S. airlines, would create the nation’s biggest airline, surpassing Delta.
The deal would face intense antitrust scrutiny despite a business‑friendly administration, further consolidating a four‑carrier market.