AMR Corporation, parent company to American Airlines, has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in the United States as it seeks to return to profitability.

AMR, which also operates American Eagle, took the decision after the failure of the latest round of cost-cutting labour negotiations and is the last of the major American carriers to seek such protection.

The decision was taken in order to “achieve a cost and debt structure that is industry competitive and thereby assure its long-term viability” of the carrier, explained a statement.

Following the lead of virtually all other major airline competitors in the United States, the Chapter 11 process will allow AMR to continue conducting normal business operations while it restructures its debt, costs and other obligations.

Normal flight services will continue, with the decision having no direct legal impact on operations outside the United States.
“We have met our challenges head on, taking all possible action to secure our long-term position,” said Thomas Horton, chairman, chief executive officer and president of AMR.

Horton earlier replaced Gerard Arpey, who yesterday informed the board of his decision to retire, at AMR.

He initially joined AMR in 1985 and held a range of senior financial positions with AMR before taking over the top position today.

Chapter 11

American has battled against bankruptcy for nearly a decade as rivals have slimmed down.

The carrier has been embroiled in negotiations with unions for all of its major work groups for five years as it sought to cut an $800 million labour-cost disadvantage to other carriers.

Pilots, flight attendants, mechanics and baggage handlers are all presently involved in disputes with the company.

The airline also has a fleet of older aircraft where are less fuel-efficient than those operated by rivals. As fuel prices have continues to rise conditions have become unsustainable for AMR.

“As we have made clear with increasing urgency in recent weeks, we must address our cost structure, including labour costs, to enable us to capitalise on our foundational strengths and secure our future,” continued Horton.

“Our very substantial cost disadvantage compared to our larger competitors, all of which restructured their costs and debt through Chapter 11, has become increasingly untenable given the accelerating impact of global economic uncertainty and resulting revenue instability, volatile and rising fuel prices, and intensifying competitive challenges.”

The Company has approximately $4.1 billion in unrestricted cash and short-term investments which it says will be sufficient to meet ongoing costs.
Passengers concerned over the possible impact on flights are advised to check the official website.

Source: BTN

American Airlines and two of its fellow oneworld® members, British Airways and Iberia, are observing the first anniversary of their joint business. To mark the occasion, the airlines are having a joint fare sale between the United States and Europe with fares as low as $224 each way, based on round-trip Economy Class travel purchased on AA.com.

Book now, as tickets for these special fares will go quickly and must be purchased by Nov. 15.  Economy Class fares must be booked at least seven days prior to travel, while Business Class fares must be booked at least 14 days prior to travel.
The Economy Class originating travel dates to Europe include Nov. 8 through Dec. 16, 2011, as well as Dec. 25, 2011, through April 1, 2012.  Business Class originating travel dates run from Nov. 15, 2011, through May 22, 2012.  All travel in both classes must be completed by June 15, 2012.

The special Economy Class fares to continental Europe are lowest for travel Sunday through Thursday.  If traveling to the UK, fares are lowest Monday through Wednesday.  Other attractive Economy Class fares are offered on other days of the week.  The special Business Class fares are valid any day of the week.  A Saturday night stay is required for both Economy and Business Class , while the maximum stay allowed is six months.

Here are some sample fares for Economy Class travel on off-peak days.  A portion of or all travel for some itineraries may be operated by American Airlines, British Airways, Iberia, American Eagle or the AmericanConnection® carrier Chatauqua:
New York – London $224
Chicago – Paris $285
Dallas/Fort Worth – Frankfurt $360
Los Angeles – London $274
New York – Manchester, UK $224
Miami – Madrid $262
Boston – London $224
New York – Milan $318
Dallas/Fort Worth – Paris $374
New York – Zurich $298

Travelers can check schedules and fares and book on www.AA.com  .  AA.com has the absolute lowest fares – guaranteed – available for American Airlines, American Eagle and AmericanConnection® carrier flights.

Source: BTN

Shares of American Airlines parent AMR fell 33 percent on Monday on growing fears the third-largest US airline is headed for bankruptcy, although the carrier said Chapter 11 is "not our goal."

The stock's decline to its lowest price since 2003 outpaced the share losses of rivals, which also suffered on worries that economic weakness could hit travel demand.

"When can they stop the bleeding of cash?" asked Basili Alukos, an equity analyst at Morningstar. AMR had a second-quarter net loss of USD$286 million, while rivals showed profits.

AMR spokesman Andrew Backover acknowledged the speculation but declined to say whether AMR was considering Chapter 11.

"Regarding rumours and speculation about a court-supervised restructuring, that is certainly not our goal or our preference," he said. "We know we need to improve our results, and we are keenly focused as we work to achieve that."

Although AMR typically does not comment on its stock prices, Backover noted "there is no company-driven news that has caused the volatility in AMR shares today."

American is seen as the financially weakest large US carrier, and its stock closed down 33 percent at USD$1.98 on the New York Stock Exchange.

Shares of bankrupt companies usually become worthless, and new shares are typically issued once the restructuring is complete.

AMR's stock was halted seven times on the New York Stock Exchange on Monday. Trading is halted on the NYSE each time a stock moves more than 10 percent in a 5-minute period.

AMR said in regulatory filing last month that it expects to end the third quarter with unrestricted cash of USD$4.2 billion. Also last month, AMR sold USD$725.7 million bonds to offset a significant portion of the USD$1.3 billion in debt maturities remaining for 2011.

"If it appears we're coming into somewhat of a rough patch or slowdown, how is that going to fare for them?" Alukos said. "I don't think very well, because they were unable to generate a profit kind of in the best of times for the airlines last year."

BANKRUPTCY AN OPTION, FAR FROM CERTAIN

Ray Neidl, a senior aerospace sector analyst with Maxim Group, said in a recent research note, "Some believe that a prepackaged bankruptcy filing would be the best thing for AMR and the industry."

But he noted on Monday that a bankruptcy filing is not inevitable.

"We do not believe that this management wants to or, in fact, is prepared to do a filing at this point and they would not be forced into one with cash reserves of over USD$4 billion of free cash," Neidl said.

In 2003, American retained lawyers to advise it on a potential bankruptcy filing that ultimately did not happen. It was unclear whether the airline has kept the lawyers on retainer.

American Airlines is the only major carrier that did not restructure in Chapter 11 during the recent industry downturn. As a result the airline has operating costs, including labour costs, that are higher than those of competitors.

The company is renegotiating its labour contracts. Management told the Allied Pilots Association union last week that 129 pilots said in September they would retire on October 1, an unusually high number for a single month.

The mass retirement spurred the bankruptcy talk on Monday because the move by those pilots locks in pension values that might have been in jeopardy if the workers risked sticking with the company through a bankruptcy reorganisation when it is easier for a company to jettison pensions.

"Many assumed that part of the reason was that on retirement, pilots could take a lump sum payment on their pension and many pilots just wanted to call it quits before the situation deteriorated further," Neidl said.

Gregg Overman, a union spokesman, said a backlog of retirements are hitting now as pilots take advantage of a contract provision that enables them to leave and lock in a pension value somewhat higher than it would be if they stayed.

"Many are looking at stock market volatility and the global economy and what the prospects are going to be for the industry and American if you have this kind of turbulence and economic uncertainty," Overman said.

"They are not acting on any inside information about the airline's financial state," he said, noting that to the best of his knowledge, the bankruptcy talk at American is rumour and is not being discussed at the bargaining table.

AMR rivals, United Continental and Delta Air Lines, which both used bankruptcy protection to cut costs in the last decade, have since found merger partners. Delta bought Northwest Airlines and United bought Continental.

American Airlines was not part of the latest wave of airline consolidation, although some experts believe US Airways is a likely partner for AMR at some point.

In July, American placed a giant order for 460 single-aisle jets worth up to USD$40 billion, splitting the business between Boeing and Airbus. The record-large order for fuel-efficient planes is meant to help the carrier cut costs.

Source: Reuters

American Airlines has reached a deal with Expedia to allow the companies to resume doing business together, effective immediately.

Access to fares and schedule information of American Airlines and its subsidiary American Eagle has been restored for search and ticketing on Expedia and Hotwire sites.

The deal follows a falling out in January this year, which saw American Airlines tickets withdrawn from Expedia sites.

Expedia said it plans to access American’s fares, schedules, and customised travel products and services via American’s direct connect link by using aggregation technology provided by a GDS.

Expedia is committed to working with airlines, GDS and other technology partners to ensure continued innovation within the Expedia marketplace.

Additional terms were not disclosed.

January Fall Out

Expedia was forced to stop selling American Airlines tickets in January after a disagreement over terms.

Online travel retailer Expedia has stopped selling American Airlines tickets following a disagreement over terms.

With contracts between the two partners up for renewal, AA had been pushing for more favourable terms.

Airlines have to pay a commission every time people search a particular flight, look up a fare or book a trip.

The Texas-based airline said at the time it would rather sell more tickets through its own website, saying Expedia is too costly.

Source: BTN

FORT WORTH, Texas, March 25, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Due to the fire that has severely affected aircraft fueling capabilities at Miami International Airport (MIA), American Airlines offers customers the ability to change their travel plans.

American's operation at the Miami airport continues to be impacted with many cancellations and delays. Customers with a flight today to, from, or through Miami should plan ahead on AA.com by checking gates and times and signing up for proactive flight status alerts.  Customers can also use the automated flight information option at 800-433-7300 to check the status of their flight.

If your flight is cancelled or delayed, please do not go to the airport to seek standby opportunities.  Customers will be automatically rebooked if their flight is cancelled and will be contacted.

Should you choose not to travel today, please contact American Airlines reservations at 800-433-7300. We can change your flight to an alternate airport, or to another day for travel.  One change will be allowed without any charge, though fare differences may apply.  

Please note that calls to Reservations may involve lengthy hold times. American realizes this can be an inconvenience and appreciates your patience.

Source: American Airlines

American Airlines and Qantas, members of the oneworld® Alliance, today announced the next phase of their deepening commercial relationship, expanding the number of routes on which the airlines will codeshare between major cities across North America and Australia.
Qantas will codeshare on American Airlines flights to 28 new destinations from Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), American's largest hub. American Airlines will begin codesharing on Qantas services between Sydney and Dallas/Fort Worth as well as domestic services from Brisbane to Adelaide, Canberra, Cairns, Melbourne and Perth.
The expansion comes ahead of the launch of direct Qantas services from Sydney to DFW, on May 16, and will give Qantas customers unparalleled access to a wide range of major cities across the United States, Canada and Mexico. New destinations include Chicago, Houston, Las Vegas, Miami, Nashville and New York (Newark) – as well as Calgary, Toronto and Vancouver.*


Members of both airlines' loyalty programs – the American Airlines AAdvantage® program and Qantas Frequent Flyer program – are able to accrue and redeem miles/points across the combined networks of both carriers.
As announced earlier this year, Qantas and American Airlines will shortly seek regulatory approval for closer collaboration from the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) and other relevant authorities.
Group Executive Qantas Airlines Commercial, Rob Gurney, said, "The new codeshares will help maximize the benefits of the new DFW service for passengers and underpin the enhancement of the Qantas-American Airlines relationship. This is an important step for Qantas as we prepare to begin flying to Dallas/Fort Worth and seek to deepen our relationship with American Airlines.


"With the addition of 28 new codeshare cities, Qantas' network out of DFW will total 54 destinations when we commence services in May, providing unprecedented choice and convenience for Australians visiting the USA.  Similarly, the Australian tourism industry will have the opportunity to tap into a huge market of potential US visitors.


"Expanding our codeshare arrangement with American Airlines allows us to capitalize fully on DFW's position as a major hub airport for business and leisure travel. As well as most major US cities, Qantas customers will be able to travel through DFW to Canada and Mexico, including such destinations as Toronto, Vancouver, Cancun and Mexico City.


"We have worked closely with American Airlines over many years, and with the commencement of services to Dallas/Fort Worth we look forward to taking our partnership to a new level," said Gurney.
Virasb Vahidi, American's Chief Commercial Officer, said, "Our expanded codeshare relationship with Qantas makes it easier and more convenient for our customers to travel on the global networks of both airlines. We are pleased to give our respective customers unprecedented access to destinations across North America and Australia. We are focused on delivering more choices, easier connections and a better overall travel experience, and this expanded relationship with our valued partner, Qantas, is a great example of those efforts."
Vahidi added, "Our strengthened relationship will further enhance our position in the growing trans-Pacific market, as well as in the respective home markets of each carrier, and make oneworld a stronger global alliance. We look forward to more opportunities to deepen our relationship with Qantas in the future."
The new codeshare destinations will be progressively made available for sale over the next month. A full list of Qantas codeshare destinations beyond DFW is listed below.

American Airlines-operated Qantas codeshare destinations beyond Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport – new destinations in bold (*Canadian and Mexican destinations subject to regulatory approval):
ATL – Atlanta, GA
AUS – Austin, TX
BDL – Hartford, CT
BNA – Nashville, TN
BOS – Boston, MA
BWI – Baltimore, MD
CLE – Cleveland, OH
CLT – Charlotte, NC
CMH – Columbus, OH
CVG – Cincinnati, OH
CUN – Cancun, Mexico
DCA – Washington (Reagan), D.C.
DEN – Denver, CO
DSM – Des Moines, IA
DTW – Detroit, MI
EWR – Newark, NJ
FLL – Fort Lauderdale, FL
GDL – Guadalajara, Mexico
GRR – Grand Rapids, MI
HOU – Houston (Hobby),TX
IAD – Washington (Dulles), D.C.
IAH – Houston (Bush), TX
IND – Indianapolis, IN
JAX – Jacksonville, FL
LAS – Las Vegas, NV
LEX – Lexington, KY
LGA – New York (LaGuardia), NY
MCI – Kansas City, MO
MCO – Orlando, FL
MEM – Memphis, TN
MEX – Mexico City, Mexico
MIA – Miami, FL
MKE – Milwaukee, WI
MSN – Madison, WI
MSP – Minneapolis, MN
MSY – New Orleans, LA
MTY – Monterrey, Mexico
OKC – Oklahoma City, OK
OMA – Omaha, NE
ORD – Chicago, IL
ORF – Norfolk, VA
PHL – Philadelphia, PA
PHX – Phoenix, AZ
PIT – Pittsburgh, PA
PVR – Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
RDU – Raleigh/Durham, NC
SAT – San Antonio, TX
SDF – Louisville, KY
STL – Saint Louis, MO
TPA – Tampa, FL
TUL – Tulsa, OK
YVR – Vancouver, Canada
YYC – Calgary, Canada
YYZ – Toronto, Canada
New Qantas-operated American Airlines codeshare destinations in Australia:
SYD – Sydney (from Dallas/Fort Worth)
ADL – Adelaide (from Brisbane)
CBR – Canberra (from Brisbane)
CNS – Cairns (from Brisbane)
MEL – Melbourne (from Brisbane)
PER – Perth (from Brisbane)

Source: American Airlines

Members of American Airlines AAdvantage and WestJet's Frequent Flyer Programs will be Able to Earn Miles or Rewards on Codeshare Flights

American Airlines and WestJet Airlines announced today they have entered into a comprehensive codeshare agreement, providing customers with more choices and greater connectivity when travelling between the United States and Canada.

The codeshare relationship, which is subject to regulatory approvals, will allow American to place its AA* code on WestJet flights, and WestJet to place its WS* code on flights of American Airlines and American Eagle.

The placement of AA* code on WestJet flights will provide American's customers seamless connecting service to up to 20 Canadian cities not currently served by American or American Eagle. WestJet will initially place its WS* code on American or American Eagle flights from Canada to Chicago and Boston, with expanded service throughout American Airlines network expected in the near future. The codeshare agreement will make it easier and more convenient for customers to connect from WestJet to American's global route network and from American to WestJet's Canadian operations.

Members of the American Airlines AAdvantage® program and WestJet's Frequent Guest Program® will be able to earn miles or rewards on the codeshare flights, providing customers another benefit of the enhanced relationship. The two airlines are exploring other ways to augment their cooperation in the future.

"Our codeshare with WestJet will further expand our North American network and provide our customers seamless connections to and from cities throughout Canada," said Virasb Vahidi, American's Chief Commercial Officer. "As a valuable result of NAFTA economic integration and the open skies aviation agreement between Canada and the United States, Canada has become an ever more important business and leisure destination for travelers from the U.S."

"This agreement with American Airlines marks an important milestone in WestJet's history," said Hugh Dunleavy, WestJet's Executive Vice-President, Strategy and Planning. "WestJet is executing our strategic plan to evolve our interline and codeshare capabilities. These initial routes should immediately enhance our reach and value proposition to business and corporate travellers, particularly in central Canada. We are very pleased to see the success of our efforts as we enter the first codeshare where WestJet will actively sell on another airline. We look forward to a successful relationship with American."

Shortly after all regulatory approvals are received, customers will be able to book these codeshare itineraries through travel agencies, most major North American online travel agency websites, www.aa.com, American Airlines Reservations at 800-433-7300, www.westjet.com or the WestJet Sales Super Centre at 1-888-937-8538.

About American Airlines

American Airlines, American Eagle and AmericanConnection® serve 250 cities in 40 countries with, on average, more than 3,400 daily flights. The combined network fleet numbers more than 900 aircraft. American's award-winning website, AA.com®, provides users with easy access to check and book fares, plus personalized news, information and travel offers. American Airlines is a founding member of the oneworld® Alliance, which brings together some of the best and biggest names in the airline business, enabling them to offer their customers more services and benefits than any airline can provide on its own. Together, its members serve nearly 700 destinations in more than 130 countries and territories. American Airlines, Inc. and American Eagle Airlines, Inc. are subsidiaries of AMR Corporation. AmericanAirlines, American Eagle, AmericanConnection, AA.com, We know why you fly and AAdvantage are trademarks of American Airlines, Inc. (NYSE: AMR)

About the AAdvantage® Program

The AAdvantage program was the first frequent flyer program. Established in 1981, the program now has more than 66 million members. Members can earn miles at more than 1,000 participating companies, which include 27 hotel chains representing more than 60 brands, more than 20 airlines, eight car-rental companies, 11 financial companies, and over 500 brand name retailers. In addition, members can earn miles when making purchases with one of more than 100 affinity card products in over 40 countries. In 2010, AAdvantage members redeemed more than 165 billion miles to claim just fewer than 7.2 million awards for flights, upgrades and car rentals. For more information and a listing of AAdvantage program participating companies, visit www.aa.com/aadvantage.

About WestJet

WestJet is Canada's favourite airline, offering scheduled service throughout its 71-city North American and Caribbean network. Inducted into Canada's Most Admired Corporate Cultures Hall of Fame and named one of Canada's best employers, WestJet pioneered low-cost flying in Canada. Named a J.D. Power 2011 Customer Service Champion, WestJet offers increased legroom, leather seats and live seatback television provided by Bell TV on its modern fleet of 93 Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. With future confirmed deliveries for an additional 42 aircraft through 2018, WestJet strives to be one of the five most successful international airlines in the world.

Source: WestJet

FORT WORTH, Texas, March 1, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- American Airlines (AA), British Airways (BA) and Iberia (IB) have proudly opened the doors of the airlines' first joint Premium lounge. Located in Concourse E just beyond the security checkpoint on the fifth floor, the Premium lounge will provide additional seamless service as part of the joint business agreement among AA, BA and IB to share revenue, coordinate networks and schedules and co-operate commercially on routes between North America andEurope.

"With American and American Eagle operating from six gates in Terminal E and our joint business partners also operating from Terminal E, the Premium lounge offers customers traveling through Miami a convenient place to relax before, between and after flights," said Peter Dolara, American's Senior Vice President – Mexico, Caribbean and Latin America. "This lounge provides another customer touchpoint where our representatives can offer seamless, premium service and enhance the travel experience as part of the joint business."

The newly opened AA, BA, IB Premium lounge spans 6,000 square feet and offers seating for 120 guests. The multi-functional Business Center has work stations, some with HP Compaq dc7900 PCs with complimentary high-speed Internet access, that enable guests to stay connected while traveling. Other amenities include two TV lounges with flat-panel TVs, a children's room with HP PCs outfitted with age-appropriate programming, and spa-like showers.

Travelers visiting the Premium lounge can also take advantage of complimentary food and beverages. Customers can order premium liquors, wines and beer, as well as coffee, tea, sodas and water. For those looking for a bite to eat, the lounge offers a complimentary lunch, afternoon tea or light supper menu. Menus may include freshly-prepared soup du jour and an assortment of mini sandwiches.

"The opening of this new lounge enables us to offer our customers the best service at a time when our presence in Miami is growing significantly – apart from our daily flight between Miami and Madrid we will begin operating three non-stop weekly flights from Miami to Barcelona on March 29," said Jose Maria Alvarado, Iberia's Country Manager in the U.S. "This new Premium lounge is part of a 150 million-euro customer care program that Iberia launched in 2009 to among other things, renovate all of our VIP lounges and upgrade our Business Plus."

The AA, BA, IB Premium lounge is open daily from 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. and welcomes oneworld eligible International First Class, Business Class and Emerald and Sapphire customers. Customers traveling on an AA-operated transcontinental full fare First Class (F and Z inventory) or full fare Business Class (J and U inventory) ticket, as well as Admirals Club members departing from Concourse E, may also access the lounge

About American Airlines

American Airlines, American Eagle and AmericanConnection® serve 250 cities in 40 countries with, on average, more than 3,400 daily flights. The combined network fleet numbers more than 900 aircraft. American's award-winning website, AA.com®, provides users with easy access to check and book fares, plus personalized news, information and travel offers. American Airlines is a founding member of the oneworld® Alliance, which brings together some of the best and biggest names in the airline business, enabling them to offer their customers more services and benefits than any airline can provide on its own. Together, its members serve approximately 750 destinations in nearly 150 countries and territories. American Airlines, Inc. and American Eagle Airlines, Inc. are subsidiaries of AMR Corporation. AmericanAirlines, American Eagle, AmericanConnection, AA.com, We know why you fly and AAdvantage are trademarks of American Airlines, Inc. (NYSE:AMR - News)

About British Airways

British Airways is the UK's largest international airline serving more than 150 destinations and carrying 33 million people a year on its global network.

About Iberia

Today, Iberia is the leading airline in Spain, the routes that connect Spain and Europe, and also market leader on flights between Europe and Latin America. Together with its franchise partner Iberia Regional, both airlines operate more than 1,000 flights every day to about 100 destinations. Iberia is a member of the oneworld®, an alliance offering 9,000 daily flights to 800 destinations in 150 countries. For further information about the Iberia Group: http://grupo.iberia.com/portal/site/grupoiberia/.

American Airlines today announced it will be the first U.S. airline to launch service between the continental United States and Tokyo’s International Airport at Haneda (Haneda) since the United States and Japan signed a historic Open Skies Agreement in October 2010. American is the world’s only airline to fly between New York and Tokyo’s Haneda in more than 30 years. American will begin its historic service on Friday, Feb. 18, from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, and on Feb. 20, from Haneda.

Haneda Facts:

• Haneda is the most convenient airport serving Tokyo for customers travelling to or from the city center - located only 30 minutes from downtown Tokyo.
• With almost 70 million annual passengers, Haneda is one of the busiest airports in Asia, and the fourth busiest airport in the world.
• Once the route begins, the oneworld® alliance will have more flights between the U.S. and Haneda than any other alliance.
• Haneda is Japan’s main hub for domestic flights, providing the widest range of options for connections to and from cities throughout the country.

American Airlines Facts:

• With the New York – Haneda service, American will be the only airline to serve both Narita and Haneda Airports from New York.
• In addition to its new service to Haneda, American will continue to provide service to Tokyo’s Narita Airport from New York-JFK, Chicago, Los Angeles and Dallas/Fort Worth.
• American Airlines cornerstone markets are also some of the most traveled U.S. – Japan markets. Passengers traveling to or from AA cornerstone markets to Japan represent approximately 43% of the Continental U.S. – Tokyo traffic.*
• American Airlines codeshares on Japan Airlines service between Tokyo’s Narita Airport and New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and Honolulu as well as from San Francisco and Honolulu to Haneda – providing customers with even more travel choices to Japan and Asia.
• The new AA flight will use a Boeing 777 with 247 seats, 16 in First Class, 37 in Business Class, and 194 in Economy Class.

Source: American Airlines

To celebrate the recent launch of social media channels dedicated to earning miles in the AAdvantage® program, American Airlines is launching the AAdvantage "Mystery Miles" promotion. Through March 31, 2011, members can simply "like" the AAdvantage program on Facebook at facebook.com/AAdvantage and quickly earn between 100 and 100,000 miles. The actual number of miles members will earn is the mystery.

When members visit the AAdvantage Facebook page, click the Mystery Miles tab and enter their AAdvantage number, they will be taken on a "Mystery Miles Journey." The journey will end with a randomly generated mileage amount between 100 and 100,000 AAdvantage miles, which will be deposited into their AAdvantage account within 3-5 business days.

"The opportunities to reward our customers through these new dedicated social media channels are endless and we're delighted to find fresh and innovative ways to connect with our loyal members," said Maya Leibman, President – AAdvantage Loyalty Program. "Just the click of a mouse lets our members earn miles towards their next getaway or dream vacation. Everyone's a winner – and what's not to 'like' about that?"

The AAdvantage Facebook and Twitter channels are the first social media channels dedicated to earning miles with a U.S. airline loyalty program. The channels are designed to regularly share with members various ways to increase their mileage balance, and encourage them to share their methods of earning miles.

During the promotion, members are also encouraged to become followers of the @AAdvantage Twitter handle. For more information about the AAdvantage program, visit www.aa.com/aadvantage, or to enroll in the program, visitwww.aa.com/enroll.

About the AAdvantage® Program

The AAdvantage program was the first frequent flyer program.  Established in 1981, the program now has more than 66 million members.  Members can earn miles at more than 1,000 participating companies, which include 27 hotel chains representing more than 60 brands, more than 20 airlines, eight car-rental companies, 11 financial companies, and over 500 brand name retailers.  In addition, members can earn miles when making purchases with one of more than 100 affinity card products in over 40 countries.  In 2010, AAdvantage members redeemed more than 165 billion miles to claim just fewer than 7.2 million awards for flights, upgrades and car rentals. For more information and a listing of AAdvantage program participating companies, visit www.aa.com/aadvantage. 

Source: American Airlines

Delta Air Lines (DAL) initiated the increase Monday on its premier class and last-minute fares, with increases up to $120 for a round-trip ticket. Other large network airlines subsequently matched it by raising prices on first-class, business-class and seven-day advance-purchase tickets that can cost as much as $900 for a domestic round trip.

After initially matching Delta's move, US Airways (LCC)changed its mind and canceled the increase Wednesday. Others — Delta, American Airlines (AMR),United Airlines(UAL) and Continental Airlines — followed suit, according to Rick Seaney, CEO of FareCompare.com, which closely monitors fares.

"I thought (Delta's hike) was overzealous," he says. "They're probing customers. They're also probing the appetites of other airlines. I guarantee you we'll see more probing in the coming days."

Airlines closely monitor each other's fares and frequently match any price movements, lest they lose sales to a cheaper competitor. Their attempts to raise fares often fail if competitors don't match them.

With the economy improving and corporate travel departments enlarging their budgets, airlines are emboldened to charge higher fares even as they keep their seating capacity in check.

The network airlines' most recent attempt to raise business travel fares was their second in as many weeks. They've also raised fares more broadly — affecting most of their seats and leisure travelers — five times since December.

But the airlines' failure this week may be a sign of the tentative pace of the recovery of business travel, which sank along with the economy in 2008.

As airlines raised fares for most of their routes, Southwest Airlines (LUV) didn't match in two of the rounds, Seaney notes.

"If Southwest doesn't participate," Seaney says, "(other airlines) tend to tiptoe around those (routes) to make sure they're at equilibrium with Southwest."

Airlines argue that rising fuel prices dictate higher fares.

Jamie Baker, a JPMorgan Chase airline analyst, told the Associated Press that if fares don't rise further, airlines will need lower fuel prices or will have to cut flights and seating capacity to boost their earnings.

Source: USA Today

FORT WORTH, Texas, Feb. 16, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- American Airlines today announced it will be the first U.S. airline to launch service between the continental United States and Tokyo's International Airport at Haneda (Haneda) since the United States and Japan signed a historic Open Skies Agreement in October 2010. American is the world's only airline to fly between New York and Tokyo's Haneda – located only 30 minutes from downtown Tokyo, a long-awaited benefit for travelers – in more than 30 years. American will begin its historic service on Friday, Feb. 18, from New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport, and on Feb. 20, from Haneda.

Haneda is the most convenient airport serving Tokyo for customers traveling to or from the city center. With almost 70 million annual passengers, it is one of the busiest airports in Asia, and the fourth busiest airport in the world. It is also Japan's main hub for domestic flights, providing the widest range of options for connections to and from cities throughout the country. With the New York – Haneda service, American will be the only airline to serve both Narita and Haneda Airports from New York, while the oneworld® alliance will have more flights between the U.S. and Haneda than any other alliance.

In addition to its new service to Haneda, American will continue to provide service to Tokyo's Narita Airport from New York-JFK, Chicago, Los Angeles and Dallas/Fort Worth. These American Airlines cornerstone markets are also some of the most traveled U.S. – Japan markets. Passengers traveling to or from one of these AA cornerstone markets represent approximately 43% of the Continental U.S. – Tokyo traffic.*

This announcement is the latest in a series of moves by American and oneworld to strengthen their position in New York and other key U.S. cities. Less than a year ago, American announced it was adding 31 flights on 13 new routes from New York, including some new international routes, and investing $30 million in its JFK and LaGuardia terminals. New York is a key city for both of American's joint businesses – across the Atlantic with British Airways and Iberia, and across the Pacific with Japan Airlines. Customers now have more travel choices to Europe and the Pacific on these partner airlines than in the past.

Japan Airlines will codeshare on American's New York – Haneda flight and also serves the New York – Tokyo market via Narita, and together, the two airlines will provide a choice of three daily round-trip flights for customers traveling between New York and Tokyo. In addition, Japan Airlines also offers service to Narita from Los Angeles, Chicago and Honolulu and to Haneda from San Francisco and Honolulu. American markets and codeshares on these Japan Airlines flights.

American also announced that it will offer triple AAdvantage® miles for First and Business Class travel and double AAdvantage miles for Economy Class travel on American's new JFK – Haneda route through May 31, 2011. For customers purchasing a First Class or Business Class fare, that adds up to more than 20,000 miles** for a one-way trip (includes base plus bonus miles earned) to reward customers for their loyalty. To participate in this offer, register prior to travel and obtain complete details at www.aa.com/haneda.

"New York and Tokyo are the economic engines of the U.S. and Japan, and the principal network gateways of American and Japan Airlines," said Virasb Vahidi, American's Chief Commercial Officer. "Open Skies between the U.S. and Japan will stimulate both national economies, enable us to bring more service benefits to our customers, and promote cross-cultural exchanges. American and Japan Airlines are key partners in realizing this strategy, and we are focused on delivering these benefits as quickly as possible."

Vahidi also noted the dedication of government officials in Washington D.C. and New York as well as members of the Japanese Government: "Without their vision, this would not have been possible."

"New York - Tokyo travelers have a number of flights to choose from: this new JFK - Haneda flight of American Airlines, in addition to conventional flights to and from Narita," said Mamoru Shinohara, Acting Consul General, Consulate General of Japan in New York.  "This JFK-Haneda flight, together with the overall closer cooperation between American and Japan Airlines, will surely benefit both countries by encouraging travel and trade and promoting the sharing of ideas."

Shuichi Kameyama, Executive Director, New York Office, of the Japan National Tourism Organization, said: "We are excited about American Airlines nonstop flight to Haneda from JFK.  The proximity of Haneda to downtown Tokyo will make it all the more inviting for Americans to visit our fascinating city for business and leisure travel, and to experience its many attractions, including the finest in culture, food, sports and entertainment."

JFK-Haneda Schedule

Here is American's schedule between New York JFK and Haneda. All times shown are local.

From New York JFK to Tokyo Haneda
Flight	Departs	Arrives	Days	Begins
135	6:10 p.m.	10:15 p.m. (Next Day)	Daily	Feb. 18

From Tokyo Haneda to New York JFK
Flight	Departs	Arrives	Days	Begins
134	6:40 a.m.	5:15 a.m. (Same Day)	Daily	Feb. 20

Onboard Amenities

The new AA flight will use a Boeing 777 with 247 seats, 16 in First Class, 37 in Business Class, and 194 in Economy Class. Customers aboard this flight can enjoy the style and comfort of the American Airlines Flagship(SM) experience in First and Business Class as well as entertainment at every seat in the Economy Cabin. The First Class cabin Flagship Suite® offers privacy dividers, 1-2-1 across cabin seating, and the ultimate in video and audio entertainment options. American's Next Generation Business Class cabin features fully customizable lie-flat-at-an-angle seats and a library of entertainment at your fingertips. Bose® QuietComfort® Acoustic Noise Cancelling® headphones are available in both First and Business Class.

Customers can also enjoy award-winning wines and chef-inspired dining in First and Business Class, including a new breakfast service on flights from Tokyo Haneda. American collaborated with celebrity consulting chef, Sam Choy, to create several new Asian-fusion menu items for this flight. Customers can choose to pre-order Japanese-style entrees prior to their flight at no cost. The pre-order option provides convenience to customers traveling to and from Japan. In addition, a variety of teas, including green tea, are available onboard for premium customers traveling between Tokyo Haneda and New York JFK.

Premium passengers on the JFK-HND flight can also enjoy minimum check-in times that reduce the time required to be at the airport, which is one hour for check-in with bags and 45 minutes for check-in without bags.

* Source:  2010 MIDT Data

**AAdvantage Triple Miles Offer

Customers who fly on this new route and purchase a First Class or Business Class fare can earn triple AAdvantage miles for travel through May 31. Or, they can fly on a purchased Economy Class fare and earn double AAdvantage miles. They can earn this bonus an unlimited number of times. AAdvantage bonus mile offer is valid on American Airlines marketed and operated nonstop flights for travel between New York/JFK and Tokyo Haneda (HND), Feb. 18, 2011 through May 31, 2011. Offer applies only to AAdvantage members who purchase and fly on eligible published fare tickets. Flights operated by our codeshare partners are not eligible for this promotion. Bonus miles do not count toward elite status qualification and will be awarded based on the booking class purchased. Registration prior to travel is required. To register and obtain complete offer details, visit www.aa.com/haneda.

About the AAdvantage® Program

The AAdvantage program was the first frequent flyer program. Established in 1981, the program now has more than 66 million members. Members can earn miles at more than 1,000 participating companies, which include 27 hotel chains representing more than 60 brands, more than 20 airlines, eight car-rental companies, 11 financial companies, and over 500 brand name retailers. In addition, members can earn miles when making purchases with one of more than 100 affinity card products in over 40 countries. In 2009, AAdvantage members redeemed more than 150 billion miles to claim more than 6.9 million awards for flights, upgrades and car rentals. For more information and a listing of AAdvantage program participating companies, visit www.aa.com/aadvantage.

About American Airlines

American Airlines, American Eagle and AmericanConnection® serve 250 cities in 40 countries with, on average, more than 3,400 daily flights. The combined network fleet numbers more than 900 aircraft. American's award-winning website, AA.com®, provides users with easy access to check and book fares, plus personalized news, information and travel offers. American Airlines is a founding member of the oneworld® Alliance, which brings together some of the best and biggest names in the airline business, enabling them to offer their customers more services and benefits than any airline can provide on its own. Together, its members serve approximately 750 destinations in nearly 150 countries and territories. American Airlines, Inc. and American Eagle Airlines, Inc. are subsidiaries of AMR Corporation. AmericanAirlines, American Eagle, AmericanConnection, AA.com, We know why you fly and AAdvantage are trademarks of American Airlines, Inc. (NYSE: AMR)

Source: American Airlines