American Airlines CEO Robert Isom on potential United merger: 'A nonstarter from the get-go'

Summary

American Airlines CEO Robert Isom discusses Q1 earnings results, record revenue, and a strong Q2 outlook with 15% year-over-year growth. He addresses the impact of rising jet fuel prices and the company's ability to recover costs through fare increases. He dismisses a possible merger with United Airlines as anti-competitive and says American is not interested in a government bailout of Spirit Airlines.

• American Airlines reported record Q1 revenue and a smaller-than-expected loss.
• CEO Robert Isom anticipates 15% revenue growth in Q2 and sees strong demand continuing.
• The company is recovering about 50% of jet fuel cost increases, targeting 90% later in the year.
• Isom calls a potential United Airlines merger a 'nonstarter' due to anti-competitive concerns.
• American Airlines is not interested in acquiring Spirit Airlines or a government bailout for Spirit.
• The CEO credits the Trump administration's payroll support for stabilizing airlines during the pandemic.
• American is working with Alaska Airlines on expanded international revenue-sharing alliances.