Congress examined a proposed merger between Delta Airlines and Northwest Airlines that would discourage competition, reduce service, and result in higher fares. Delta claims that the merger would not limit competition because the carriers primarily serve different geographic regions. Witnesses scheduled to testify before the House Subcommittee were likely to focus on whether the merge would result in lower airfares or reduced competition.
Explain the guidelines that the Federal Trade Commission uses to evaluate mergers and why it might permit or block this merger.