Analysts See Hope at American Airlines

The Takeaway

Though it sounds like bad news, some analysts are saying the bankruptcy filing by American Airlines and its parent company could be a good thing. On Tuesday, Fitch Ratings said American Airlines’ bankruptcy opens “yet another window for structure change” in the flailing U.S. airline industry. Can an industry facing skyrocketing fuel prices, increasingly complex security procedures, and growing concerns about air traffic control safety find its wings? John Heimlich is vice president and chief economist at Air Transit Association, a trade organization representing the major U.S. airlines.

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