The Department of Justice (DOJ) on Tuesday sued American Airlines and JetBlue to block an alliance between the two airlines that allegedly violates antitrust laws. The lawsuit targets the so-called “Northeast Alliance” between American and JetBlue, which combines their operations at four major airports in Boston, New York, and New Jersey. The DOJ alleges that the alliance would eliminate competition between the two airlines in these markets and elsewhere, leading to higher prices for consumers. “In an industry where just four airlines control more than 80 percent of domestic air travel, American Airlines’ ‘alliance’ with JetBlue is, in fact, an unprecedented maneuver to further consolidate the industry,” Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement. “It would result in higher fares, fewer choices, and lower quality service if allowed to continue.” American Airlines responded to the lawsuit with a statement from CEO Doug Parker, who said that Delta Airlines and United Airlines …