AMR Corporation, the parent company of American Airlines and American Eagle Airlines, voluntarily filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection on Nov. 29.  American Airlines and American Eagle are the only domestic passenger airlines serving Abilene Regional Airport.

While operating under Chapter 11, the airlines will undergo a period of reconstruction, during which they will attempt to keep conditions as normal as possible, according to the company’s website.

A manager at Abilene Regional Airport said they are unsure whether or not the airport will be affected by any changes made by American Airlines.

AMR Corporation filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy to ensure that it would be able to continue servicing customers while maintaining competitiveness in the airline industry. Both airlines will continue to operate normal flight schedules.

Chapter 11 is a chapter of the United States Bankruptcy Code that allows businesses and individuals to reorganize themselves under U.S. bankruptcy laws. It permits the business to remain in operation an allows the debtor to remain in control as “debtor in possession.” While under Chapter 11 bankruptcy, the business is under the jurisdiction the court and subject to its oversight.

Many ACU students who live out of state travel through Abilene Regional Airport when they go home or return to school. Josh Garcia, freshman journalism major from Lexington, N.C., has flown with American Airlines and has already purchased a ticket with the airline for his next trip home. He is scheduled to fly out of Abilene Regional Airport.

Garcia said he was surprised at the bankruptcy because American Airlines had competitive prices.

“My flight from Greensboro, N.C. back to Abilene airport was overbooked, so they were getting plenty of business,” Garcia said.

Garcia said he enjoys flying with American Airlines because its prices are competitive and it has always provided good service.

Garcia has not heard if there will be any changes with his ticket back to North Carolina.