It shall be unlawful, unless authorized by order of the commission as provided in this act:
(1) a. For two (2) or more air carriers, or for any air carrier and any other common carrier, to consolidate or merge their properties, or any part thereof, into one (1) person for the ownership, management or operation of the properties theretofore in separate ownerships.
(2) b. For any air carrier, or any person controlling an air carrier or any other common carrier, to purchase, lease or contract to operate the properties, or any substantial part thereof, of any air carrier.
(3) c. For any air carrier, or any person controlling an air carrier or any other common carrier, to acquire control of any air carrier in any manner whatsoever.