Release #05.AWA2
April 20, 2005

ALPA America West Pilots Respond to Merger Speculation

Captain CJ Szmal, chairman of the America West Airlines unit of the Air Line Pilots Association, made this statement today following reports that the company is engaged in merger talks with US Airways.

"We are not surprised by the recent reports of merger talks between America West and US Airways. After similar discussions with ATA abruptly ended, AWA management was clear in their desire to participate if and when the industry consolidates.

"With this speculation gaining momentum, we contacted AWA senior management but did not learn any tangible information. However, management has repeatedly stated that opportunities would only be pursued if they were in the best interest of the employees. And we are determined to hold management to that commitment.

"Our goal is to vigorously protect the careers of America West pilots. We will aggressively prepare for the potential of a merger announcement by keeping in contact with America West management, engaging our Merger Committee and outside merger counsel.

"Bottom line: We will continue to actively pursue every available means to protect and defend America West pilots' careers, whatever the future may bring."

The Air Line Pilots Association is the bargaining agent for the nearly 1,900 pilots at America West Airlines. Founded in 1931, ALPA is the world's largest pilot union, representing 64,000 pilots at 41 airlines in the United States and Canada. Visit the ALPA website at www.alpa.org.

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ALPA Contact: Lydia Jakub (602) 306-1208