American-United Merger? CEO Floats Possibility Around As O’Hare Air War Continues

A massive airline merger may take off.

For years, there's been arguments about who has more gates at Chicago O'Hare (where United Airlines is based): American or United?

This popped off last summer when American Airlines sued the city of Chicago for giving 6 of O'Hare's gates to United.

The "Air War": Airlines Battle At Busy Illinois Airport: What To Know

Fast forward almost a year to now, according to a report from Bloomberg, the two airlines may be shaking hands.

It's unclear right now if American and United are actively exploring a deal but United CEO Scott Kirby talked to senior government officials about the idea of merging the two airlines.

It's not unusual for airlines to merge, though JetBlue's recent attempt to acquire Spirit was blocked.

If American and United were to join, it would create the world's largest airline and change up competition on air travel.

O'Hare Flyers Love It And Hate It

As with anything, it's getting mixed reviews from frequent flyers at O'Hare. Traveler Xavier Hale told ABC7 Chicago:

Smooth out some of the chaos, help both airlines, both employees for each company. I'm all for it.

Meanwhile, other travelers are concerned about the merger's removal of competition. Traveler Steve Nied told the outlet:

I don't like it. I mean, it'll reduce competition. Higher fares, and maybe less availability.

Business and economic professionals are surprised and apprehensive about the possible merger.

Timing of merger talk comes along as United and American are dealing with more expensive fuel and their competition for gates at O'Hare has made the FAA step in and demand them both to reduce their summer schedules.