The Federal Communications Commission approved Nexstar Media Group's $6.2 billion acquisition of rival broadcaster Tegna on Thursday, clearing a major regulatory hurdle for the deal that will create the largest operator of local television stations in the United States.

The FCC's approval came alongside clearance from the Department of Justice, allowing the merger to proceed after regulatory review. The commission granted Nexstar a waiver of federal rules that typically limit the percentage of television stations a single company can own nationwide.

The deal combines two major players in local television broadcasting, with both companies operating stations across multiple markets throughout the country. Once completed, the merged entity will significantly expand Nexstar's footprint in the local television landscape.

However, the merger faces ongoing legal challenges despite regulatory approval. Two separate lawsuits seeking to block the acquisition were announced on the same day the FCC granted its approval, though details about the plaintiffs and their specific objections were not immediately available.

Nexstar announced the deal's closure following the regulatory approvals, marking the completion of a transaction that has been under review by federal agencies. The merger represents one of the largest consolidation moves in the local broadcasting industry in recent years.