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American, US Airways sever ties with Orbitz, despite ‘tireless’ efforts

Posted at 6:16 PM, Aug 26, 2014
and last updated 2014-08-26 18:16:56-04

NEW YORK (CNNMoney) — The nation’s largest airline is cutting ties with online booking agent Orbitz.

American Airlines and US Airways, which merged to form American Airlines Group late last year, made the announcement Tuesday.

Tickets already purchased through the site will not be canceled. But effective immediately, Orbitz will no longer sell new American Airlines tickets. It will stop selling US Airways tickets on Sept. 1.

American and US Airways tickets will continue to be available to business customers through Orbitz for Business.

American said no agreement could be reached on the portion of ticket sales that Orbitz would receive.

“We have worked tirelessly with Orbitz to reach a deal with the economics that allow us to keep costs low and compete with low-cost carriers,” American Airlines President Scott Kirby said in a statement.

Orbitz did not immediately respond to requests for comment Tuesday afternoon. It is in fierce competition with other online ticket sellers, including Expedia, that also advertize travel deals and packages.