American Airlines and U.S. Airways have agreed to continue daily service to six Michigan communities for at least five years.
It's part of a settlement agreement reached with Michigan and five other states as part of the two airlines' proposed merger.
The affected cities in Michigan are Detroit, Flint, Kalamazoo, Grand Rapids, Traverse City and Marquette.
At least one airport official says the merger will be good for airline customers.
"I think it's going to benefit regional cities here in Michigan for the opportunity to be able to serve more destinations, which brings more seats to the market, which brings more competitive fares to the market, which I think will benefit all consumers," said Cherry Capital Airport Director Kevin Klein. Klein is also president of the Michigan Association of Airport Executives.
In a written statement, Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette said, "this settlement preserves free market competition, protects the jobs associated with that service, and retains key airline routes in Michigan."
The settlement also requires the two airlines to divest some gates a various hub airports around the country.
The settlement agreement requires final court approval.
--Virginia Gordan, Michigan Radio Newsroom
