April 27 (UPI) -- The chief executive officer of United Airlines confirmed Monday that he pitched a potential merger to American Airlines, but was turned down.
United CEO Scott Kirby said in a statement Monday that American Airlines rejected his proposal.
"I approached American about exploring a combination because I thought we could do something incredible for customers together," Kirby wrote in the statement.
Kirby wrote that he was seeking "a willing partner that shared my big, bold vision."
He said the plan was aimed at increasing coverage for customers, creating a globally competitive airline and growing the U.S. economy.
