Skift Take

The courting carriers aren’t over the finish line just yet, but the green light from the DOJ dramatically increases the likelihood of the deal closing successfully.

Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian are one step closer to gaining final approval for their proposed merger. Following two last-minute extensions in recent days, the review period for the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to complete its regulatory investigation has ended.

In a statement, Alaska described the expiry of the DOJ deadline as “a significant milestone in the process to join our airlines.” It noted that as part of the DOJ’s review, the airline worked closely with the Hawaii Attorney General “to reinforce and expand upon our commitments for the future of Hawaiian Airlines and to Hawaii consumers.”

Hawaii Governor Josh Green added: “I appreciate the DOJ’s strong consideration of Hawaii’s unique needs during its