JetBlue suffered a loss of US$153 million in the third quarter, pointing to the impact of what it called significant weather-related impacts and rising fuel prices. ― Reuters file picNEW YORK, Nov 1 ― Midsized carrier JetBlue began squaring off in court yesterday against the US Department of Justice in a closely-watched challenge to the Biden administration's antitrust policy.
In this trial New York-based JetBlue is trying to keep alive its proposed US$3.8 billion acquisition of Spirit Airlines, a low-cost carrier. The government has sued to block the merger on competition grounds. US Attorney General Merrick Garland announced the suit in March, saying the merger would drive up fare prices and be “particularly harmful for travellers who rely on what are known as ultra-low-cost carriers in order to fly.”JetBlue has said the government's case rests on a faulty analysis, arguing that the combination will have “pro-competitive” effects by allowing JetBlue to compete more effectively against bigger carriers like Delta and American.
“With more planes and a far broader network, JetBlue will spread its uniquely strong competitive effect to more legacy-dominated routes, lowerings its rivals' fares and improving the quality of their product along the way,” JetBlue argued in a legal brief.In a conference call to discuss earnings, JetBlue Chief Executive Robin Hayes Tuesday defended the deal, saying the transaction could close in the first half of 2024 if the airline wins in court.
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