Benjamin Dryden on Alaska-Hawaiian Merger – 'The deal had strong support from the governor of Hawaii'

Foley & Lardner LLP partner Benjamin Dryden assessed the merger between Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines in the Law360 article, “Alaska-Hawaiian Merger, An Aviation Anomaly.”

The merger, unchallenged by the U.S. Department of Justice and approved by the U.S. Department of Transportation with certain conditions, takes place amid staunch antitrust enforcement and opposition to consolidation under the Biden administration.

“It was significant that the deal had strong support from the governor of Hawaii, who emerged as a key advocate for the transaction,” said Dryden, vice-chair of Foley’s Antitrust & Competition Practice Group. “In his view, the transaction will play a critical role toward securing and expanding air and cargo service to, from, and within Hawaii, benefiting residents, visitors, and businesses alike.”

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