The U.S. Department of Justice, joined by several states, brought an antitrust action seeking to block JetBlue Airways’ proposed $3.8 billion acquisition of Spirit Airlines. The government alleged that the transaction would substantially lessen competition in domestic air travel markets by eliminating Spirit as an independent ultra-low-cost carrier and increasing the likelihood of higher fares for consumers. JetBlue contested those claims, arguing that the combination would strengthen competition against larger network airlines and generate consumer benefits.
The case was tried as a four-week bench trial in the U.S. District Court for the District of Massachusetts, involving extensive economic testimony, market analyses, and documentary evidence addressing airline competition, pricing dynamics, and route overlap. Following trial, the court ruled in favor of the government and enjoined the proposed transaction.
DOAR was retained by JetBlue to provide graphics consulting, multimedia design, and evidence presentation services in support of the defense’s case at trial.
