Delta and Western shareholders voted to merge.

Delta Air Lines and Western Airlines shareholders voted for the $860-million merger of the two companies, clearing the way for creation of the nation’s fourth-largest air carrier. A spokesman for Atlanta-based Delta said the merger was approved by the holders of 70% of Delta’s outstanding shares. Los Angeles-based Western Airlines said 63.8% of its outstanding shares were voted in favor of the merger. Delta officials said they expected the acquisition of Western stock to be completed later this week.