Multiple airlines have reported cyber attacks in the past week and the FBI has put out a warning that a notorious cybercriminal group has started targeting the industry.
After the Justice Department said it would launch an inquiry into the state of airline competition, the airline and travel industries criticized the move as politically motivated.
United’s issue is its multiple business agreements with Hawaiian — including one on loyalty. Alaska CEO Ben Minicucci has previously said he envisions a loyalty program that would house the two brands if the merger is approved.
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.