American Airlines, US Airways to Create Global Carrier
AMR Corporation (OTCQB: AAMRQ), the parent company of American Airlines, Inc., and US Airways Group, Inc. (NYSE: LCC) today announced that the boards of directors of both companies have unanimously approved a definitive merger agreement under which the companies will combine to create a premier global carrier, which will have an implied combined equity value of approximately $11 billion based on the price of US Airways’ stock as of February 13, 2013.
Operating under the American Airlines name, a leading brand in the world, the combined airline will have a global network. The merger is aimed to offer benefits to both airlines’ customers, communities, employees, investors, and creditors.
Customers are expected to have access to more choices and increased service across the combined company’s larger worldwide network and through an enhanced oneworld Alliance, of which American Airlines is a founding member.
[ Also Read: Airbus Reveals the Future of Flight in Smarter Skies ]Recently, American Airlines unveiled a new logo and exterior for its planes, including the Flagship Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. (Read: American Airlines Debuts Modern Look)
American Airlines Future
With firm orders for more than 600 new mainline aircraft, the combined airline will have one of the most modern and efficient fleets in the industry, and a solid foundation for continued investment in technology, products, and services, believes American Airlines.
Thomas Horton, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer of American Airlines, will serve as Chairman of the combined airline’s Board of Directors through its first annual meeting of shareholders, and will also serve as the combined airline’s representative to the oneworld Alliance, of which he is currently chairman, and International Air Transport Association for the same duration.
Doug Parker, Chairman and CEO of US Airways, will serve as Chief Executive Officer and a member of the Board of Directors. Mr. Parker will assume the additional position of Chairman of the Board following the conclusion of Mr. Horton’s service.
The Board of Directors will initially be made up of twelve members. The Board will be comprised of three American Airlines representatives, including Tom Horton, four US Airways representatives, including Doug Parker, and five AMR creditor representatives.
American Airlines made this announcement today, Feb. 14.
