DFW International Airport Statement On American Airlines Decision

DFW INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT, Texas (April 17, 2003) – DFW is extremely pleased that the airline and its unions found common ground. We know how tough the economic conditions are, and how tough the decisions are for all parties.

The Airport is confident that American Airlines (AA) will remain a strong carrier here. As AA's largest hub, DFW will play a key role in the financial recovery of the airline, and AA's customers will continue to receive a strong flight schedule for their travels. Currently, AA offers more than 640 daily departures, serves 133 destinations from DFW and handled more than 36.8 million passengers in 2002. 

DFW has been proactive in its contingency planning in preparation for today's business circumstances. The Airport has extensive contingencies in place, and will continue to aggressively look for opportunities to increase efficiencies and maintain a competitive cost structure. 

DFW 's $2.6 billion Capital Development Program will continue to move forward, on track and on budget for a 2005 unveiling. Long before September 11, and the current economic and industry conditions, the Airport viewed the new international terminal and Automated People Mover (SkyLink) system as the key to future growth. DFW is currently scheduled to begin the final bond sales for the project the week of April 28, and is confident the bond market will respond favorably to the offering.

Finally, DFW Airport is well positioned and looks forward to continuing its future successes in serving the traveling public. While the current struggles of AA are challenging, the North Texas travel market remains resilient with 20 million local passengers and $9 billion in ticket sales every year. Through all the economic turmoil, DFW has maintained its position as the third busiest airport in the world. We look forward to even better days ahead. 

Located halfway between the cities of Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas, DFW International Airport is the world's third busiest, offering nearly 2,000 flights per day and serving 55 million passengers a year. DFW International Airport provides non-stop service to 132 domestic and 31 international destinations worldwide.

Editor's Notes: This release, and past news releases issued by DFW International Airport, are available online at www.dfwairport.com in the “MediaSite” section. For the latest news, real-time flight information, parking availability or further details regarding the many services provided at DFW International Airport, log on to www.dfwairport.com. To arrange interviews contact DFW Public Affairs at 972 574 NEWS (6397) or Ken Capps, APR, Vice President Public Affairs, kcapps@dfwairport.com