WASHINGTON – The Supreme Court has chosen not to hear the case about American Airlines teaming up with JetBlue Airways. American claimed the deal was good for passengers in the crowded Northeast, where travel is often difficult.
Back in 2021 the Justice Department and several states filed a lawsuit to stop the partnership. They believed the deal would hurt travelers by reducing competition on key air routes.
Lower courts supported the government’s position. They ruled against both airlines agreeing that the deal was unfair to customers.
On June 30, the Supreme Court officially rejected American Airlines request to review the case. This means the earlier court decision will stand.
American Airlines lawyers argued that there was no strong proof the partnership caused higher prices or worse service for passengers. They insisted the deal was not harmful.
But the states and the Justice Department disagreed. They said the partnership took away competition in busy markets. They also pointed out that JetBlue had already ended the deal nearly two years ago, making the issue less important now.