American Airlines Inc. and US Airways Inc. are setting up ways to let their employees pressure lawmakers to support the carriers’ proposed merger, with both a write-in and fly-in campaign.
American’s website to boost its merger with US Airways — newamericanarriving.com — now offers merger supporters an easy way to write officials. The message: Please back the merger and oppose the antitrust lawsuit filed by the U.S. Department of Justice.
“The new American is about growth, improved service, a broader network and giving consumers another global choice. Tell government and elected officials to let American Airlines and US Airways compete together,” says the page, also open to the general public.
The website will automatically create and send a letter to an individual’s appropriate state and federal officials, including U.S. senators and congressmen, based on the writer’s address.
“Let American and US Airways move forward with this merger so that consumers, communities and employees can begin to enjoy the benefits of the new American,” the form letter urges.
“This is one way that you can make a real difference,” the two airlines said in an employee newsletter Thursday. “If every one of our more than 100,000 employees of American and US Airways participates, over half a million letters will be sent to various government and elected officials across the country. That’s quite a statement of support!”
American and US Airways officials also plan an employee “fly-in” to Washington, D.C., on Sept. 17 and 18 to let the employees pressure lawmakers in person.
“During the two-day event, 300 employees from both airlines will visit the Capitol to meet with senators and congressmen in an effort to directly communicate the benefits of the merger for all stakeholders,” American told managers in a “heads up” message Thursday.
“The event will culminate in an employee rally in the middle of Capitol Hill, and all D.C.-area employees are welcome to attend as well,” the message stated.
Justice lawyers filed a lawsuit Aug. 13 to block the merger, arguing that it would lead to higher fares and fewer choices for customers. Joining in the lawsuit are the District of Columbia and attorneys general of seven states, including Texas.
The case is set for trial in U.S. District Court in Washington. D.C., on Nov. 25.
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