As the merger between Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines progresses, the Department of Transportation (DOT) is imposing new, enforceable protections for consumers from both airlines.

“Our utmost priority is to protect the interests of travelers amid this merger. We have obtained binding commitments that will preserve essential flight services for various communities, ensure smaller carriers can access the Honolulu airport, reduce expenses for families and military members, and maintain the worth of reward miles against devaluation,” stated Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg. He added, “This proactive approach signifies a new era for the DOT in advocating for passengers and fostering a more equitable aviation industry in the U.S.”

The DOT announced that the airlines have pledged to uphold several commitments once they merge, including:

• Retain the value of airline miles in a unified frequent flyer program
• Maintain routes between the islands and continental U.S. within Hawaii
• Protect Essential Air Service routes in both Alaska and Hawaii
• Encourage competition at the newly merged airline’s Honolulu hub
• Assure free seating for families

The DOT has permitted the airlines to begin merging their operations, but final approval for the complete integration of their services is still under review.

According to DOT officials during a press conference regarding consumer protections, the Department of Justice has not attempted to obstruct the merger on antitrust grounds, though neither department has given final approval for the merger yet. Notably, the recent merger proposal between JetBlue and Spirit Airlines faced a block from the DOJ.

Zach Wichter is a travel journalist for YSL News located in New York.