United Airlines CEO says big merger unlikely after American rebuff, asset buys possible

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby stated that a major merger is unlikely following a rebuff from American Airlines, although asset acquisitions remain a possibility. Kirby expressed confidence in strong demand, noting that higher fares should enable the carrier to recover the full impact of surging fuel prices later this year. This strategy underscores the airline's commitment to financial recovery and growth through targeted asset buys rather than large-scale mergers in the current market.