AMR Likely to Split Massive Order Between Boeing, Airbus

This article appeared on Seeking Alpha. Please view disclosures: https://seekingalpha.com/article/280307-amr-likely-to-split-massive-order-between-boeing-airbus As we outlined a few weeks ago in “AMR’s Big Order to Pressure Cash Flow, Boeing in Precarious Position,” we indicated the increasing likelihood that AMR (which holds American Airlines) may split a massive $15 billion-plus order between Boeing (BA) and Airbus to replace its aging fleet of narrowbodies. This would represent a huge shift at the major carrier, as AMR currently flies all-Boeing aircraft. Verbatim from our July 1 report: Boeing is in a rather precarious position. Airbus has claimed all along that it will capture customers currently flying the 737 with its A320neo (new engine option), an upgrade to its A320 that has the option to sport more fuel-efficient engines. The … Read more

Yield Outlook Deteriorates for Airline Stocks

This article appeared on Seeking Alpha. Please view disclosures: https://seekingalpha.com/article/280098-yield-outlook-deteriorates-for-airline-stocks As we had outlined in our industry primer for airlines, the yield (pricing) environment for the group is treacherous and remains under perpetual pressure. The International Air Transport Association [IATA] released its July 2011 Airline Business Confidence Survey. Importantly, the IATA commented on the outlook for yields, which we reproduce below: While both passenger and cargo transport businesses saw improving yield performance during the second quarter of 2011, the trend is flattening. With demand-supply conditions weakening and concerns that markets may not bear further fare/rate rises, prospects for yields over the year ahead look flat. With over 80% of respondents reporting increased input costs during Q2, clearly high fuel costs have … Read more

What Does $150 Oil Mean for Airline Stocks? New 52-week Lows.

This article appeared on Seeking Alpha. Please view disclosures: https://seekingalpha.com/article/277933-what-does-150-oil-mean-for-airline-stocks-and-the-airline-etf-expect-new-52-week-lows In “Get Ready for $150 Oil,” Barron’s predicts an oil shock will occur in spring 2012, with the black commodity reaching a record average monthly price of $150 per barrel, with spikes to $165 and $170 along the way. If this prognostication proves correct, airlines are in for a world of hurt. Before we get started on just how painful this shock could be, we invite airline stock speculators to take a read of our industry primer on the airline industry.  Jet fuel prices generally represent the largest component of an airline’s cost structure, and we estimate that for every $1 increase in the price of crude oil, it costs the global airline industry about $1.5 to $1.7 billion more. … Read more