Photo via FreightWaves
According to FreightWaves, Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern are doubling down on their merger application before the Surface Transportation Board, contending that the proposed combination meets all applicable regulatory standards. The two rail carriers are urging the STB to maintain momentum in its review process, asserting that their application satisfies the agency's established criteria for competitive impact and operational efficiency.
The merger has drawn scrutiny from regulators and industry observers concerned about consolidation in the rail sector. Union Pacific and Norfolk Southern have structured their arguments around compliance with STB guidelines, emphasizing what they view as the transaction's benefits to the freight transportation network.
As the STB's deliberative process moves forward, both carriers remain committed to addressing the board's questions and demonstrating that the merger would advance the interests of shippers, carriers, and the broader logistics industry while maintaining competitive safeguards.