Republic Airways and Mesa Air To Merge, Becoming Second-Largest Regional Airline in America

Those who prefer to fly with a pair of America’s most popular regional airlines, Republic Airways and Mesa Air, may notice a few changes to their usual travels coming soon, according to the latest news concerning U.S. carriers in this category.

Per an April 7 press release, the two airlines are set to merge via an all-stock transaction, one resulting in a publicly traded company. The newly formed entity will be traded on the Nasdaq under the listing of RJET, under the name of Republic Airways Holdings Inc. — retaining the company moniker of the larger pre-merger carrier.

Representatives for both regional carriers appeared pleased with the outcome.

“Today’s announcement is an exciting next step in Mesa’s more than 40-year history, one that represents the best outcome for our shareholders, employees, and all of our stakeholders,” said Jonathan Ornstein, Mesa’s chairman and CEO. “By bringing the best of our organizations together, we will create a regional carrier that continues to connect communities across America while providing advancement opportunities to our employees.”

“We’re thrilled to combine the Republic and Mesa teams to create one of the world’s leading Embraer Jet operators,” said Bryan Bedford, president and CEO of Republic.

“Republic and Mesa share a common mission to connect communities across America, and we believe that we can better achieve that mission together. With this combination, we are establishing a single, well-capitalized, public company that will benefit from the deep expertise of Republic and Mesa associates, creating value for all stakeholders well into the future,” Bedford added.

Republic and Mesa Set To Join Forces in 2025

🔴 Republic Airways and Mesa Air Group will merge in an all-stock deal to form a leading regional airline. The combined company, retaining the Republic Airways name and NASDAQ listing, will operate 310 Embraer jets under contracts with major U.S. carriers. #Airways #News pic.twitter.com/fgKfq22BA4

— Airways Magazine (@airwaysmagazine) April 7, 2025

The merger was approved unanimously by the boards of both companies and is expected to come into effect during Q3 or Q4 of 2025 — subject to regulatory approval, closing conditions, and shareholder approval from both sides.

Citing an improved economy of scale, an enhanced capital and liquidity position, complementary networks and operations, and a shared company culture of safety and reliability, the press release underscored the fact that this arrangement was beneficial for all parties. Per the terms of the agreement, Republic shareholders will hold 88% of the new company, while Mesa shareholders will be afforded between 6% and 12% of the new entity, depending upon pre-closing criteria.

As a result of the merger, Republic Airway Holdings Inc. will become the second-largest regional carrier in the United States.