Republic Airways Holdings Inc. announced the successful completion of the merger between Republic Airways and Mesa Air Group, Inc. The transaction was announced on April 7, 2025 and approved by Mesa stockholders on November 17, 2025. Under the terms of the merger agreement, Republic stockholders now own approximately 88% of the combined company’s common stock and Mesa stockholders will own at least 6%, and up to 12% of the combined company’s common stock, subject to the final settlement of Mesa’s pre-closing obligations.
As a combined company, Republic Airways Holdings Inc. will own the world’s largest Embraer jet fleet of 310 E-Jets supporting more than 1,300 daily departures. Republic Airways Inc. will continue to support American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines under its existing capacity purchase agreements (“CPA”) while Mesa Airlines will support United Airlines under a new 10-year CPA signed in connection with this transaction.
“This merger establishes a combined company with a common mission to provide safe, clean, and reliable service to connect people and communities across America. The transaction will create value for all of our stakeholders and strengthen the regional aviation industry,” said David Grizzle, CEO of Republic Airways. “Today, Republic returns to the public markets as a well-capitalized airline with a strong strategic plan, a capable and proven workforce of aviation professionals, and a horizon bright with opportunity.”
Republic and Mesa share a legacy of regional airline operations built on a strong culture and professional pride. This merger unites two organizations that have long recognized the value of investing in people whose skill and dedication have earned the trust of partners and passengers alike. The cultural alignment of the combined organization positions its more than 8,000 impacted aviation professionals for continued growth, development, and long-term success.
Matt Koscal, President of Republic Airways, explained the strategic logic of the transaction: “Bringing Republic and Mesa together is the natural next step for Republic. It continues a growth trajectory that stretches back more than five decades, makes us a stronger and more capable partner for our customers, will create new job and career opportunities for our people, and offers a compelling investment opportunity in an essential industry.”
Republic and Mesa will maintain parallel operations while the combined company works to consolidate the two airlines to operate as a single carrier.
As of today, the combined company will trade under the ticker RJET on the NASDAQ Global Select Market.
Simpson Thacher & Bartlett LLP served as legal counsel and Goldman Sachs & Co. LLC served as financial advisor to Republic Airways. FTI Capital Advisors, LLC served as financial advisor and DLA Piper LLP served as legal counsel to Mesa Air Group. Sidley Austin LLP served as legal counsel to United Airlines.
