WASHINGTON, DC.-- After American Airlines announced plans to file for bankruptcy protection, U.S. Senators Dick Durbin (D-IL) and Mark Kirk (R-IL) pleaded with the airline to make Illinois a priority.
Durbin and Kirk together wrote a letter to Tom Horton, Chairman and CEO of American Airlines, stressing the importance of the company's history with Illinois.
"We believe maintaining and growing American's presence in Illinois will be key to the future health of your company," they wrote. "We stand ready to work with you to keep American Airlines in business providing the most modern, safe, and efficient air travel in Illinois."
American Airlines, along with American Eagle, employ over 9,500 individuals and operate in six airports in Illinois alone, generating $7.6 billion in economic impact for the state.
Durbin and Kirk say American Airlines is a key shareholder in the modernization project of O'Hare airport.
"American Airlines entering bankruptcy is certainly unfortunate news," continued the senators. "However, the future of American Airlines will be determined by the actions and priorities the company makes during the bankruptcy proceedings."
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