Alaska Air Group Secures DOT Approval for Hawaiian Operating Certificate Transfer

In a significant development, Alaska Air Group has received approval from the US Department of Transportation (DOT) for the transfer of Hawaiian Airlines’ operating certificate. This move is part of Alaska Air Group’s acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines, which was announced earlier this year. The approval marks a major milestone in the acquisition process, paving the way for the integration of the two airlines. The DOT’s decision comes after a thorough review of the application, which included an assessment of the potential impact on competition and the public interest. Alaska Air Group has committed to maintaining Hawaiian Airlines’ existing routes and services, including its inter-island operations. The company has also pledged to invest in the Hawaiian Airlines brand, with plans to upgrade its fleet and improve customer amenities. The acquisition is expected to create a stronger, more competitive airline group, with a combined network of over 1,000 daily flights. The deal is also expected to generate significant cost savings, which will be reinvested in the business to drive growth and improvement. Hawaiian Airlines’ employees will be retained, with Alaska Air Group committing to maintaining the airline’s existing collective bargaining agreements. The transfer of the operating certificate is subject to certain conditions, including the requirement for Alaska Air Group to maintain Hawaiian Airlines’ existing safety standards. The company has also agreed to provide regular updates to the DOT on its progress in integrating the two airlines. The acquisition is expected to be completed in the coming months, subject to the satisfaction of certain closing conditions. The deal has been welcomed by industry analysts, who see it as a positive development for the US airline industry. The combination of Alaska Air Group and Hawaiian Airlines is expected to create a more efficient and competitive airline group, with a strong presence in the US market. The acquisition is also expected to drive growth and investment in the Hawaiian economy, with Alaska Air Group committing to maintain Hawaiian Airlines’ existing operations in the state. Overall, the approval of the operating certificate transfer is a significant step forward for Alaska Air Group and Hawaiian Airlines, and paves the way for the creation of a stronger, more competitive airline group.

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