American Airlines files for bankruptcy

“I’ve seen people who deserve that,” Byrne told WPXI-Pittsburgh. “But never have I ever seen someone actually get thrown off a plane.” (EPA)

The parent companies of American Airlines and its regional affiliate American Eagle are filing for bankruptcy protection.

AMR Corporation and AMR Eagle Holding Corporation said today that they filed voluntary petitions to reorganise, saying it's in the best interest of the companies and its shareholders.

American says it sought protection to reduce its costs and debt to remain competitive in the airline industry.

American was the only major US airline that didn't file for bankruptcy protection after the 2001 terrorist attacks.

American says labour-contract rules force it to spend at least $600 million more than other airlines.