Slide for Line of identical airplanes lined up on a runway under a yellow-orange sunset sky with city buildings in the background.
The merger strengthened service delivery for multiple major U.S. airlines.
Deal Done
Republic and Mesa Successfully Complete a Complex Airline Merger
Deal Done
Republic and Mesa Successfully Complete a Complex Airline Merger
Key Contacts
How do you integrate two key players in the regional airline industry following a strategic reverse merger?
As the regional airline industry navigates a significant shift towards consolidation, FTI Capital Advisors proactively brokered merger conversations between Republic Airways and Mesa Airlines, with the aim of creating value for not only the two companies, but the larger codeshare partners they served.
Following nearly two years of negotiations, the strategic reverse merger was announced in April 2025. FTI Consulting’s Transactions team was then retained to lead the integration program and execute a comprehensive Day 1 project plan in a short timeline.
Our Impact
The deal was finalized in November 2025, solidifying the new group as the second-largest regional airline in the United States and the world’s largest fleet of Embraer 310 E-Jets.
Slide for Generating alt texts...
Through a carefully executed pre-close and Day 1 integration plan, the merged company combined select back office operations and launched support for critical maintenance and supply chain needs.
Slide for Generating alt texts...
Due to the successful integration strategy, Republic and Mesa integrated key corporate functions within 30 days of Close and are well-positioned as they work towards operating under a Single Operating Certificate (“SOC”).
In crisis and transformation,what matters most is what you do next.
Our Role
End-to-end transaction and integration support
FTI Capital Advisors originated and structured the merger, supporting Mesa by leading complex, multiparty strategic negotiations and advising on transaction design to align operational, financial and strategic objectives across both carriers and their major airline partners.
Our experts performed a rapid assessment of integration program needs for Republic, including level of workstream support, by conducting interviews with key stakeholders at Republic and Mesa.
FTI Consulting’s Strategic Communications team designed a communications strategy across multiple stakeholders, including employees, suppliers, media, partners and OEMs.
The team partnered with Republic leadership to design an internally managed post-close integration management office to continue the integration and capitalize on quick-win value capture.
Related Experts
Discover Your Team
Real-world experience that delivers.
See why FTI Consulting is the leading global expert firm for organizations facing crisis and transformation.
More Success Stories
Deep Expertise in Action
See how our expert-driven, industry-focused approach produces real results in an increasingly complex world.
