Originally Posted by
Flyby1206
That’s the only thing it boils down to. Does Kirby need more slots than JB is willing to lease to UA through the BlueSky partnership? If yes, then a merger becomes a more serious option. If no, then JB will remain a standalone.
UA or standalone aren't the only options. This isn't binary. SWA and AK are very viable possibilities and the chatter with those two airlines has been just as loud on the inner circles as UA has been in the press.