Investments

3 Months Ended

Mar. 31, 2018

Investments, Debt and Equity Securities [Abstract]

Investments

INVESTMENTS

Short-Term Investments

The estimated fair values of short-term investments, which approximate cost at March 31, 2018, are shown below by contractual maturity. Actual maturities may differ from contractual maturities because issuers of the securities may have the right to retire our investments without prepayment penalties.

(in millions)	Total
Due in one year or less	$	120
Due after one year through three years	374
Due after three years through five years	13
Due after five years	16
Total	$	523

Long-Term Investments

We have developed strategic relationships with a number of airlines through equity investments and other forms of cooperation and support. Strategic relationships improve our coordination with these airlines and enable our customers to seamlessly connect to more places while enjoying a consistent, high-quality travel experience.

Equity Method Investments

• Aeroméxico. We have a non-controlling 49% equity stake in Grupo Aeroméxico, the parent company of Aeroméxico.

• Virgin Atlantic. We have a non-controlling 49% equity stake in Virgin Atlantic Limited, the parent company of Virgin Atlantic Airways.

We account for these investments under the equity method of accounting and recognize our portion of their financial results in miscellaneous, net in our income statement under non-operating expense.

Fair Value Investments

• Air France-KLM. We own 10% of the outstanding shares of our joint venture partner, Air France-KLM. In addition, we are working to develop a combined long-term joint venture with Air France-KLM and Virgin Atlantic.

• GOL. Through our investment in preferred shares of GOL's parent company, we own 9% of GOL's outstanding capital stock.

Additionally, GOL has a $300 million five-year term loan facility with third parties, which we have guaranteed. Our entire guaranty is secured by GOL's ownership interest in Smiles, GOL's publicly traded loyalty program. Because GOL remains in compliance with the terms of its loan facility, we have not recorded a liability on our Consolidated Balance Sheet as of March 31, 2018.

• China Eastern. We have a 3% equity interest in China Eastern.

We account for these investments at fair value with adjustments to fair value recognized in unrealized gain/(loss) on investments in our income statement under non-operating expense.