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Home > BizTimes Daily > Archives > October 30, 2008
Delta becomes largest airline with acquisition of Northwest
Published October 30, 2008 - BizTimes Daily
Delta Air Lines Inc. closed on its acquisition of Northwest Airlines Corp. Wednesday, meaning Delta inherits a minority stake in Oak Creek-based Midwest Airlines.
The U.S. Justice Department approved creation of the world's largest airline Wednesday, signing off on the $3.1 billion acquisition.
The new airline, called Delta, will provide service in 66 countries and more than 375 cities worldwide.
"The airline industry faces a very difficult economic environment around the world and this merger gives Delta increased flexibility to adapt to the economic challenges ahead," said Richard Anderson, chief executive officer of Atlanta-based Delta.
The next step will be for the carriers to integrate their workforces, fleets, computers and frequent-flier plans. Because the two carriers have little overlap, the merged airline is not expected to close any of its hubs.
Eagan, Minn.-based Northwest had acquired a minority share in Midwest in 2007.
