Major US Carrier Invests in Regional Partner Amid Consolidation Trend

American Airlines has acquired a minority stake in Republic Airways Holdings following its merger with Mesa Airlines earlier this year, according to a recent filing with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Breaking Defense reports that American received approximately 9.7 million shares in the combined entity, representing about 20.8% ownership. The move places American alongside its largest competitors, United Airlines and Delta Air Lines, both of which already hold minority stakes in Republic. American agreed not to sell the shares for at least 180 days following the transaction. The deal reflects a growing trend among major US carriers to secure long-term access to regional capacity.