Trump Opposes Airline Mergers, Backs Spirit Aid

and United Airlines Holdings Inc., citing concerns about industry consolidation, while simultaneously expressing a desire for a buyer for Spirit Aviation Holdings Inc. and openness to federal government assistance for the struggling carrier, which faces potential liquidation and 14,000 job losses.

Trump's comments, made in a CNBC interview, follow a Bloomberg News report that United CEO Scott Kirby discussed a combination with the president in February. American Airlines has since stated it is not engaged in or interested in such discussions.

Spirit Airlines filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in August 2025, its second filing in less than a year, and is reportedly seeking an equity stake from the U.S. government amid higher jet fuel prices stemming from the U.S.-Iran war. Trump emphasized the importance of competition, comparing the airline industry to the aerospace and defense sectors where consolidation led to fewer bids and "lazy" companies.