American Airlines emerged from bankruptcy protection on Monday as it officially merged with US Airways to create the world’s biggest airline.
Concluded after 10 turbulent months that included an antitrust lawsuit brought by the U.S. Justice Department, the merger creates an airline even larger than the industry saw with the coming together of United and Continental.
It will take about two years to fully combine American’s fleet and workforce with those of US Airways. Codesharing will begin in February as the airlines’ frequent flier programs merge.
To win government approval, American and US Airways had to give up slots at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport and New York La Guardia, as well as gates at several other hubs.
The new American Airlines will have around 1,700 airplanes and well over 10,000 employees.
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