compared with a $143 million net
profit for the same period last year. AMR cited 40 percent growth in fuel
expenses and volatile foreign exchange rates as contributors, but CEO Gerard
Arpey also called
the carrier's cost structure "the key remaining
foundational issue" precluding the airline from profitability. American claimed
to have signed more than 100 corporate deals to its transatlantic and
transpacific joint ventures during the quarter "and has secured
commitments for increased revenue from several of its key customers,"
according to a statement. American for the three months ending Sept. 30
reported a 7 percent increase in passenger yield, a representation of average
fare per mile.