UAL CEO optimistic can address CAL merger concerns

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The chief executive of United Airlines UAUA.O is confident that any U.S. regulatory concerns about the carrier's proposed merger with Continental Airlines CAL.N will be satisfactorily addressed.

Glenn Tilton also told reporters on Tuesday after an industry conference he is "very optimistic" the deal will pass antitrust review by year's end, the deadline set by the two companies when they proposed their merger earlier this month.

"My view remains very optimistic we can address the concerns they have expressed, well within the timetable," Tilton said.

Tilton said the companies have already had "initial conversations" with Justice Department staff and he expects a "full and robust review" of the transaction.

Antitrust officials focus on how the proposal would impact competition, if at all.

Antitrust experts, analysts and industry consultants see few if any regulatory problems and widely anticipate government approval.

However, they say United and Continental may be required to divest some assets at one or more airports, possibly in the New York area where Continental is strong at Newark, to enhance competition.

Tilton would not discuss specific antitrust matters.

He and Continental CEO Jeff Smisek are scheduled to appear before U.S. Senate lawmakers at two hearings on Thursday to answer questions about the merger.

Attorney General Eric Holder told a congressional committee this month that his agency would conduct a vigorous review of the proposed merger but would not take longer than necessary.

(Reporting by John Crawley; editing by Gunna Dickson)