Merger

Scott Kirby defended his vision of a massive combined airline that would create “millions” of jobs and make the U.S. more competitive globally.

New additions include Sun Country’s current CEO and board chair.

Lawmakers cited the potential for higher fares and job losses in a letter to the carriers’ chief executives.

The airline said it is not engaged in discussions with its competitor and has no interest in doing so.

A potential deal could transform the U.S. airline industry, but only if approved by regulators.

Scott Kirby reportedly brought the idea to senior government officials, but it is not clear if the two carriers are in talks.

The carrier has identified three potential partners.

The Justice Department has ended the partners’ mandatory waiting period early.

The carrier reported full-year and fourth-quarter earnings this week.

Deal values Sun Country at about $1.5 billion as carriers move to combine operations.