In a statement issued late Wednesday, The US Dept of Justice announced that they have approved the much talked about acquisition of Northwest Airlines by Delta Airlines, which was the final litmus test the deal had to be put through before approval.

The new Delta will remain based in Atlanta. Metro Atlanta Chamber of Commerce President Sam A. Williams said, "Delta's route structure makes Atlanta the most connected city on earth".It also makes Delta Airlines the world's largest airline.

The combined airline will see approximately $2 Billion annual revenue.Despite a sharp decline in oil prices, down from over $140  a barrel to the current range of $65 per barrel fuel prices are still expensive and airline demand is continuing to fall.

A former CEO of Northwest , will remain as CEO of the new Delta, with his eight most senior officers evenly split among Delta and Northwest executives.