Parent company of American Airlines files for bankruptcy protection

FORT WORTH, Texas,None — The parent company of American Airlines filed for bankruptcy protection, leaving many passengers with questions over what that means for their future tickets and plans.

Eyewitness News looked into how Charlotte travelers would be affected by the news. American Airlines has just 20 flights a day from Charlotte Douglas. The airport said that is less than 3 percent of the total number of daily flights.

American Airlines said it will still operate flights, honor tickets and take reservations. However, as the company goes through a restructuring, it will probably reduce the flight schedule "modestly."

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Travelers may be at risk only if the restructuring fails and the airline ceases to fly. However, many of them are still protected if they paid by credit card.

Dr. Peter Schwarz, an economics professor at UNC Charlotte who follows the airline industry, said travelers should watch for sales in the short term, and he'll be watching for something else in the long term.

"The big story will be if US Airways decides to make a bid at some point," Schwarz said.

Schwarz said leaders at US Airways -- the dominant carrier at Charlotte Douglas -- have expressed interest in merging with another airline, and this could be the opportunity. Other airlines have merged after emerging from bankruptcy.

Eyewitness News asked Schwarz what a merger would mean for Charlotte travelers.

"A lot of the business destinations that American tends to serve would be easier to reach," he said.

American has hubs in New York, Los Angeles, Dallas, Chicago and Miami.

US Airways declined to comment for this story. The director at Charlotte Douglas, Jerry Orr, told Channel 9 he would not be surprised if the airline explored merging with American.

Related Stories: • April 27, 2008: NY-Based Eos Airlines Files For Bankruptcy • September 13, 2004: Charlotte's Main Airline Plans To Keep Flying Through Bankruptcy

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