Southwest wins OK for AirTran purchase

4/27/2011

WASHINGTON — Southwest Airlines Co. has won approval from U.S. regulators for the $1.02 billion acquisition of AirTran Holdings Inc. that will give the company access to Atlanta, home of the world’s busiest airport.

The Justice Department found the cash-and-stock purchase is “not likely to substantially lessen competition” and would offer new service not available to consumers, according to a statement issued Tuesday. The purchase is to close on May 2.