Congressman Jim Bridenstine Briefed on American Airlines Merger

Washington, DC, February 14, 2013     

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

American Airlines and US Airways executives met with Congressman Jim Bridenstine, his staff, and key members of Congress this afternoon to brief them on the proposed merger the two airlines announced earlier today.

The merger process is anticipated to take about six months.  American Airlines will emerge from its current bankruptcy and the merger will occur on the same day.  They expect no change in retiree benefits to result from the merger, although the AA bankruptcy has reduced benefits to retirees and some issues are still in litigation.

Asked about the specific impact on Tulsa and the maintenance base here, they replied that they were “optimistic” about Tulsa but they have no conclusions yet on the operations and maintenance plans for the merged company.  Operations people will be integrally involved in merger talks, but anti-trust considerations have not allowed them to hold the in-depth discussions necessary to address the complex questions relating to maintenance plans. 

The executives said they did not want to over-promise, but they are “positive about the Oklahoma business climate”.  Steve Johnson, US Airways Executive Vice President, said he had been very impressed with the Tulsa facilities and the American workforce here.  “I know American loves Tulsa.  We are close to other businesses in Tulsa, like Nordam, so we know Oklahoma has a good business climate.”

Interview from the Congressman on Fox 23 News concerning the merger.