The Justice Department has released a statement from Deputy Assistant Attorney General Michael Kades of the Antitrust Division following International Consolidated Airlines Group S.A. (IAG)'s decision to abandon its proposed acquisition of sole control of Air Europa Holding S.L. (Air Europa).

"The Antitrust Division is committed to protecting competition in the airlines industry. As a result of this abandonment, travelers between the United States and Europe will benefit from an industry rivalry that lowers prices, boosts quality and promotes choice. I am grateful to our enforcement partner, the European Commission, for its close and constructive collaboration with our staff on this important matter to safeguard competition," said Kades.

IAG, headquartered in the United Kingdom, is the parent company of Iberia, Vueling, and British Airways, among other air carriers. Air Europa is headquartered in Spain.