Government Approves Southwest Airlines’ Purchase of AirTran CheapOair Staff April 27, 2011 general Southwest's purchase of AirTran has been given government approval The United States government approved Southwest Airlines’ purchase of AirTran Tuesday, marking the latest in a round of recent airline mergers. The $1.04 billion deal was approved without conditions as the government concluded the takeover would not hinder competition or lead to a rise in fares. The purchase will give Southwest a stronger presence on the East Coast with access to AirTran hubs in Atlanta and Washington. The cash and stock transaction should be closed by May 2 and Southwest hopes to have AirTran fully integrated by the first quarter of 2012. Source: Reuters
