-----BEGIN PRIVACY-ENHANCED MESSAGE----- Proc-Type: 2001,MIC-CLEAR Originator-Name: webmaster@www.sec.gov Originator-Key-Asymmetric: MFgwCgYEVQgBAQICAf8DSgAwRwJAW2sNKK9AVtBzYZmr6aGjlWyK3XmZv3dTINen TWSM7vrzLADbmYQaionwg5sDW3P6oaM5D3tdezXMm7z1T+B+twIDAQAB MIC-Info: RSA-MD5,RSA, AEYnEQZWIlTXrk4l2zCX0orM+HAWwOcK8j4JAeOSEhkeFkxl9m9pG4L8m2C0Yl8/ wZFC5c2HiCX0IejY6fv94A== 0001104659-05-055563.txt : 20051114 0001104659-05-055563.hdr.sgml : 20051111 20051114171823 ACCESSION NUMBER: 0001104659-05-055563 CONFORMED SUBMISSION TYPE: 8-K/A PUBLIC DOCUMENT COUNT: 5 CONFORMED PERIOD OF REPORT: 20050907 ITEM INFORMATION: Completion of Acquisition or Disposition of Assets ITEM INFORMATION: Financial Statements and Exhibits FILED AS OF DATE: 20051114 DATE AS OF CHANGE: 20051114 FILER: COMPANY DATA: COMPANY CONFORMED NAME: SKYWEST INC CENTRAL INDEX KEY: 0000793733 STANDARD INDUSTRIAL CLASSIFICATION: AIR TRANSPORTATION, SCHEDULED [4512] IRS NUMBER: 870292166 STATE OF INCORPORATION: UT FISCAL YEAR END: 0331 FILING VALUES: FORM TYPE: 8-K/A SEC ACT: 1934 Act SEC FILE NUMBER: 000-14719 FILM NUMBER: 051202903 BUSINESS ADDRESS: STREET 1: 444 S RIVER RD CITY: ST GEORGE STATE: UT ZIP: 84790 BUSINESS PHONE: 8016343000 MAIL ADDRESS: STREET 1: 444 SOUTH RIVER ROAD CITY: ST GEORGE STATE: UT ZIP: 84790 8-K/A 1 a05-20173_18ka.htm AMENDMENT TO FORM 8-K

 

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C.  20549

 

FORM 8-K/A

 

(Amendment No. 1)

 

CURRENT REPORT

 

Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934

 

Date of Report (date of earliest event reported):  September 7, 2005

 

SKYWEST, INC.

(Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)

 

 

 

 

 

Utah

 

0-14719

 

87-0292166

(State or other jurisdiction of

 

(Commission

 

(I.R.S. Employer

incorporation or organization)

 

File Number)

 

Identification No.)

 

 

 

 

 

444 South River Road

 

 

St. George, Utah

 

84790

(Address of principal executive offices)

 

(Zip Code)

 

 

 

 

 

(435) 634-3000

(Registrant’s telephone number, including area code)

 

 

 

 

 

N/A

(Former name or former address, if changed since last report)

 

Check the appropriate box below if the Form 8-K filing is intended to simultaneously satisfy the filing obligation of the registrant under any of the following provisions:

 

o                                    Written communications pursuant to Rule 425 under the Securities Act (17 CFR 230.425)

 

o                                    Soliciting material pursuant to Rule 14a-12 under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14a-12)

 

o                                    Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 14d-2(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.14d-2(b))

 

o                                    Pre-commencement communications pursuant to Rule 13e-4(c) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13e-4(c))

 

 



 

ITEM 2.01                                       Completion of Acquisition or Disposition of Assets.

 

On September 13, 2005, SkyWest, Inc. (the “Company”) filed a Current Report on Form 8-K (the “Initial 8-K”) to report the completion of the acquisition of Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc. (“ASA”).  The Initial 8-K is incorporated herein by reference.  The Company is filing this Amendment No. 1 to Current Report on Form 8-K to report the financial statements and unaudited pro forma financial information required by Items 9.01(a) and 9.01(b) of Form 8-K, respectively.

 

ITEM 9.01                                       Financial Statements and Exhibits.

 

(a)                                  Financial statements of businesses acquired.

 

The financial statements of ASA as of December 31, 2004 and the unaudited financial statements of ASA as of June 30, 2005 and for the six months ended June 30, 2005 and 2004 are filed with this Form 8-K/A as Exhibit 99.2.  The financial statements of ASA as of December 31, 2004 and 2003 and for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002, and the report of Deloitte & Touche LLP, independent auditors, thereon, (which report contains explanatory paragraphs relating to (1) ASA’s ability to continue as a going concern, (2) a change in the method by which ASA is compensated by Delta under the Delta Connection Agreement, effective January 1, 2003, and (3) ASA’s change in its method of accounting for goodwill and other intangible assets, effective January 1, 2002, to conform to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142), are filed with this Form 8-K/A as Exhibit 99.3.

 

(b)                                 Pro forma financial information.

 

The unaudited pro forma financial information included with this Form 8-K/A has been prepared to illustrate the pro forma effects of the acquisition of ASA.  The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 and the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004 are filed with this Form 8-K/A as Exhibit 99.4.  The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 and the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004 give effect to the acquisition of ASA as if it had occurred on January 1, 2004.  No pro forma balance sheet is included herein as the Company’s historical balance sheet as of September 30, 2005, included in the Company’s quarterly report on Form 10-Q for the quarter ended September 30, 2005, reflects the acquisition of ASA.  All pro forma information in this Form 8-K/A has been prepared for informational purposes only and does not purport to be indicative of the actual results of operation of the combined enterprise if the acquisition had actually occurred on the dates indicated or what may result in the future.

 

2



 

(c)                                  Exhibits.

 

Exhibit
Number

 

Title of Document

 

Location

 

 

 

 

 

1.1

 

Amended and Restated Delta Connection Agreement, dated as of September 8, 2005, by and between SkyWest Airlines, Inc. and Delta Air Lines, Inc. (Confidential treatment has been requested for this exhibit and the confidential portions have been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission)

 

*

 

 

 

 

 

1.2

 

Second Amended and Restated Delta Connection Agreement, dated as of September 8, 2005, by and between Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc. and Delta Air Lines, Inc. (Confidential treatment has been requested for this exhibit and the confidential portions have been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission)

 

*

 

 

 

 

 

2.1

 

Stock Purchase Agreement, dated as of August 15, 2005, by and among SkyWest, Inc., Delta Air Lines, Inc., and ASA Holdings, Inc.

 

*

 

 

 

 

 

23.1

 

Consent of independent auditors

 

Filed herewith

 

 

 

 

 

99.1

 

Press release dated September 8, 2005

 

*

 

 

 

 

 

99.2

 

Financial statements of Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc. as of December 31, 2004 and the unaudited financial statements of Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc. as of June 30, 2005 for the six month periods ended June 30, 2005 and 2004.

 

Filed herewith

 

 

 

 

 

99.3

 

Report of Deloitte & Touche LLP, independent auditors, (which report contains explanatory paragraphs relating to (1) ASA’s ability to continue as a going concern, (2) a change in the method by which ASA is compensated by Delta under the Delta Connection Agreement, effective January 1, 2003, and (3) ASA’s change in its method of accounting for goodwill and other intangible assets, effective January 1, 2002, to conform to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142), and the financial statements of Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc. as of December 31, 2004 and 2003 and for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002

 

Filed herewith

 

 

 

 

 

99.4

 

Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statements of Income for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 and the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004

 

Filed herewith

 


 

 

* Previously filed with the Initial 8-K.

 

 

 

3



 

SIGNATURES

 

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned hereunto duly authorized.

 

 

SKYWEST, INC.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date: November 14, 2005

By:

/s/ Bradford R. Rich

 

 

 

Bradford R. Rich, Executive Vice President,

 

 

Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

 

4


EX-23.1 2 a05-20173_1ex23d1.htm CONSENTS OF EXPERTS AND COUNSEL

Exhibit 23.1

 

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT AUDITOR

 

We consent to the incorporation by reference in Registration Statement No. 333-70408 on Form S-8 of our report dated March 30, 2005 relating to the financial statements of Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc. (which report expresses an unqualified opinion on the Company’s financial statements and includes explanatory paragraphs relating to (1) the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern, (2) a change in the method by which the Company is compensated by Delta under the Delta Connection Agreement, effective January 1, 2003, and (3) the Company’s change in its method of accounting for goodwill and other intangible assets, effective January 1, 2002, to conform to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142), appearing in this current report on Form 8-K/A of SkyWest, Inc.

 

 

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

 

 

 

Atlanta, Georgia

November 10, 2005

 


EX-99.2 3 a05-20173_1ex99d2.htm PRESS RELEASE

Exhibit 99.2

 

ATLANTIC SOUTHEAST AIRLINES, INC.

Balance Sheets

(In Thousands, except share data)

 

 

 

June 30,

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2005

 

2004

 

 

 

(Unaudited)

 

 

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT ASSETS:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

76,409

 

$

72,249

 

Restricted cash

 

5,753

 

12,482

 

Accounts receivable, net of an allowance for uncollectible accounts of $32 at June 30, 2005 and $58 at December 31, 2004

 

8,780

 

9,381

 

Accounts receivable—affiliate

 

11,706

 

35,915

 

Note receivable-Parent

 

 

110,000

 

Interest receivable

 

209

 

 

Expendable parts and supplies inventories, net of an allowance for obsolescence of $8,015 at June 30, 2005 and $7,038 at December 31, 2004

 

21,832

 

21,685

 

Prepaid expenses and other

 

54,454

 

42,225

 

Deferred income taxes

 

12,013

 

12,044

 

Total current assets

 

191,156

 

315,981

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT:

 

 

 

 

 

Flight equipment

 

1,927,532

 

1,677,785

 

Accumulated depreciation

 

(194,221

)

(159,955

)

Flight equipment, net

 

1,733,311

 

1,517,830

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ground property and equipment

 

62,620

 

59,626

 

Accumulated depreciation

 

(23,977

)

(21,312

)

Ground property and equipment, net

 

38,643

 

38,314

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Advance payments for equipment

 

21,603

 

45,334

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total property and equipment, net

 

1,793,557

 

1,601,478

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OTHER ASSETS:

 

 

 

 

 

Retirement investments

 

1,652

 

1,599

 

Other noncurrent assets, net

 

44,042

 

38,958

 

Total other assets

 

45,694

 

40,557

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL ASSETS

 

$

2,030,407

 

$

1,958,016

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Condensed Financial Statements.

 

1



 

 

 

June 30,

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2005

 

2004

 

LIABILITIES AND SHAREOWNER’S EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT LIABILITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

Current maturities of long-term debt

 

$

197,583

 

$

43,072

 

Notes payable

 

 

 

 

 

Accounts payable

 

31,179

 

43,854

 

Accounts payable-affiliate

 

51,027

 

19,579

 

Accrued salaries and related benefits

 

28,800

 

27,860

 

Accrued liabilities and deferred credits

 

21,719

 

15,345

 

Total current liabilities

 

330,308

 

149,710

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NONCURRENT LIABILITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt

 

1,188,284

 

1,130,497

 

Long-term debt-Parent

 

 

155,000

 

Deferred income taxes

 

130,466

 

129,064

 

Deferred gains on sale and leaseback transactions

 

2,851

 

2,971

 

Retirement liability and other noncurrent liabilities

 

8,558

 

7,268

 

Total noncurrent liabilities

 

1,330,159

 

1,424,800

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Notes 6 and 7)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SHAREOWNER’S EQUITY:

 

 

 

 

 

Common shares, $0.10 par value; 100,000 shares authorized, 1,000 shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004

 

 

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

817,896

 

817,896

 

Accumulated deficit

 

(447,980

)

(434,414

)

Accumulated other comprehensive income

 

24

 

24

 

Total shareowner’s equity

 

369,940

 

383,506

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREOWNER’S EQUITY

 

$

2,030,407

 

$

1,958,016

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Condensed Financial Statements.

 

2



 

ATLANTIC SOUTHEAST AIRLINES, INC.

Statements of Operations

(Unaudited)

(In Thousands)

 

 

 

Six Months Ended
June 30,

 

 

 

2005

 

2004

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATING REVENUES:

 

 

 

 

 

Passenger

 

$

551,323

 

$

441,473

 

Total operating revenues

 

551,323

 

441,473

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATING EXPENSES:

 

 

 

 

 

Salaries and related costs

 

150,092

 

144,636

 

Aircraft fuel

 

143,806

 

80,196

 

Aircraft maintenance materials and outside repairs

 

51,773

 

39,666

 

Aircraft rent

 

31,914

 

34,177

 

Contracted services

 

46,441

 

33,058

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

40,633

 

33,655

 

Landing fees and other rents

 

25,052

 

22,199

 

Other

 

29,082

 

13,423

 

Total operating expenses

 

518,793

 

401,010

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATING INCOME

 

32,530

 

40,463

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income

 

2,628

 

1,100

 

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized and interest subsidies

 

(32,017

)

(15,951

)

Miscellaneous income, net

 

101

 

119

 

Total other expense, net

 

(29,288

)

(14,732

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES

 

3,242

 

25,731

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INCOME TAX EXPENSE

 

(1,308

)

(9,814

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

NET INCOME

 

$

1,934

 

$

15,917

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Condensed Financial Statements.

 

3



 

ATLANTIC SOUTHEAST AIRLINES, INC.

Condensed Statements of Cash Flows

(Unaudited)

(In Thousands)

 

 

 

Six Months Ended
June 30,

 

 

 

2005

 

2004

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

$

1,934

 

$

15,917

 

Adjustments to reconcile net income to cash provided by operating activities, net

 

25,300

 

21,633

 

Changes in certain assets and liabilities, net

 

45,938

 

(17,380

)

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

73,172

 

20,170

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

Property and equipment additions:

 

 

 

 

 

Flight equipment, including advance payments

 

(4,248

)

(96,894

)

Cash received for return of advance deposits

 

10,000

 

 

Ground property and equipment

 

(2,660

)

(1,751

)

Proceeds from sale of flight equipment

 

2,380

 

872

 

Increase (decrease) in restricted cash

 

6,729

 

(4,650

)

Proceeds for advances to parent

 

110,000

 

 

Purchases of available-for-sale securities

 

(108

)

(91

)

Other, net

 

534

 

 

Net cash provided by (used in) by investing activities

 

122,627

 

(102,514

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

Payments on long-term debt

 

(21,130

)

(247,209

)

Issuance of long-term obligations from parent

 

 

90,000

 

Payments on long-term debt obligations from parent

 

(155,000

)

 

Dividends paid

 

(15,500

)

(45,400

)

Issuance of long-term obligations

 

 

266,159

 

Other, net

 

(9

)

(2,307

)

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

 

(191,639

)

61,243

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

 

4,160

 

(21,101

)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

 

72,249

 

219,994

 

Cash and cash equivalents at end of period

 

$

76,409

 

$

198,893

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SUPPLEMENTAL CASH FLOW INFORMATION:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash paid during the period for:

 

 

 

 

 

Interest (net of amounts capitalized)

 

$

31,758

 

$

17,200

 

Income taxes, net

 

$

116

 

$

41

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NON-CASH TRANSACTIONS:

 

 

 

 

 

Aircraft delivered under seller-financing

 

$

233,428

 

$

35,592

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these Condensed Financial Statements.

 

4



 

ATLANTIC SOUTHEAST AIRLINES, INC.

 

NOTES TO THE CONDENSED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (Unaudited)

AS OF JUNE 30, 2005 AND DECEMBER 31, 2004 AND FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 2005 AND 2004

 

1.                      BASIS OF PRESENTATION

 

Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc. (the “Company”) is a connection carrier (“Delta Connection Carrier”) for Delta Air Lines, Inc. (“Delta”). The Company is a regional airline serving airports in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. The Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of ASA Holdings, Inc. (“ASA Holdings”), which is ultimately a wholly owned subsidiary of Delta. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”).

 

The accompanying unaudited Condensed Financial Statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”) for interim financial information. Accordingly, these interim financial statements do not include all the information required by GAAP for complete financial statements. As a result, these interim financial statements should be read in conjunction with the audited Financial Statements and the accompanying Notes in our Annual Report for the fiscal years ended December 31, 2002, 2003, and 2004 (“the 2004 Annual Report”). In the opinion of management the unaudited interim financial statements include all adjustments, consisting only of recurring and normal adjustments, necessary for the fair presentation of the financial statements.

 

Going Concern—The accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with GAAP on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and the satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business.  The Company derives substantially all of its revenues from Delta, and is reliant on Delta to continue operations in the normal course.  Delta’s financial condition along with the Company’s dependence on Delta causes substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern (see Note 10). These financial statements do not include any adjustments relating to the recoverability of assets and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern.

 

Sale of ASA— On September 7, 2005, Delta completed the sale of the Company to SkyWest, Inc. (“SkyWest”) for a purchase price of $425 million.  Under the terms of the Stock Purchase agreement, SkyWest purchased 100% of the outstanding capital stock of the Company.  In conjunction with the sale of the Company, Delta amended their contract carrier agreements with the Company and SkyWest Airlines, Inc. (“SkyWest Airlines”), a wholly owned subsidiary of SkyWest, under which the Company and SkyWest Airlines will continue to serve as Delta Connection carriers. The expiration date of these contract carrier agreements has been extended to 2020. The sale resulted in an immaterial gain that was deferred and is being amortized over the life of the Company’s contract carrier agreement.

 

Delta Bankruptcy—On September 14, 2005, Delta and substantially all of its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Debtors”) filed voluntary petitions for reorganization under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code (the “Bankruptcy Code”), in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York (the “Court”). The reorganization cases are being jointly administered under the caption “In re Delta Air Lines, Inc., et al., Case No. 05-17923-PCB.” The Debtors will continue to operate their business as “debtors-in possession” under the jurisdiction of the Court and in accordance with the applicable provisions of the Bankruptcy Code and orders of the Court.  On October 11, 2005, the Court authorized Delta to assume its obligation under the Second Amended and Restated Delta Connection Agreement, dated as of September 8, 2005 (the “ASA Delta Connection Agreement”) in connection with SkyWest’s acquisition of the Company on September 7, 2005.  See Note 10 for additional details regarding the Delta bankruptcy and the new ASA Delta Connection Agreement in effect as of the date of the sale of the Company to SkyWest.

 

2.                      DELTA CONNECTION AGREEMENT

 

Summary—Effective January 1, 2005, Delta and the Company amended its Delta Connection Agreement (the “Agreement”).  Under the Agreement the Company is compensated by Delta under a capacity purchase arrangement. The new Agreement expires eight years from the effective date of the amendment.  During 2004, the Company operated under an agreement similar to the current Agreement.  Differences between the two agreements are discussed at the end of this note.

 

Under the Agreement, Delta retains control and responsibility for all of the Company’s scheduling, ticket pricing, and seat inventories and is entitled to all revenues associated with the operation of the Company’s aircraft. The Company is responsible for operation of the aircraft and is compensated by Delta based on a market-based negotiated “block hour” rate multiplied by the actual block hours flown plus a mark-up if a certain flight completion rate is achieved, subject to certain adjustments and limitations.

 

5



 

Under the Agreement, the Company is entitled to receive at the end of each month a payment for each aircraft “block hour” the Company operates, based on an annual operating plan and projected operating costs. “Block hour” generally is defined as the time for each flight stage, measured from when the aircraft leaves the airport gate or stand to when it arrives at the gate or stand at the destination airport. The Company’s block hour rates are pre-set annually in advance through a rate setting negotiation with Delta. The established rates are designed to reimburse the Company for its estimated, market-based direct operating costs and expenses that are controllable by the Company (“Controllable Costs”), expenses that are passed through from the Company to Delta (“Pass Through Costs”), and expenses not controllable by the Company (“Non-Controllable Costs” and, collectively with Controllable Costs and Pass Through Costs,  its “Direct Costs”). The established rates do not take into consideration certain actual variations over the ensuing contract year in the pre-set costs and expenses. Direct Costs generally exclude any prepaid maintenance and are determined in accordance with GAAP.

 

Base Compensation—If the Company achieves a certain predetermined monthly completion rate for its Delta Connection flights, the Company is entitled to be paid by Delta a monthly “Base Mark-Up”  of its monthly Direct Costs, subject to certain limitations and adjustments (“Base Compensation”).

 

The Company’s Controllable Costs, for purposes of establishing its Base Compensation, include the following:

 

            wages, salaries, and benefits

 

            payroll taxes

 

            depreciation and amortization

 

            contracted services (other than with Delta or other affiliates of Delta)

 

            aircraft and engine maintenance (including Delta or other Delta affiliate-provided maintenance)

 

            facility rent (other than terminal)

 

            aircraft and other equipment rent

 

            passenger service expenses (other than with Delta or other affiliates of Delta)

 

            interrupted operations

 

            other miscellaneous expense

 

            lost/damaged baggage

 

            aircraft interest expense

 

            start-up training costs associated with operating any subsequently added aircraft

 

            commissary supplies

 

            other cash costs.

 

The Company’s Pass Through Costs, for purposes of establishing its Base Compensation, consist of fuel expense.  Any Base Mark-up of the fuel expense shall be capped at a certain per gallon fuel price.

 

The Company’s Non-Controllable Costs, for purposes of establishing its Base Compensation, include the following:

 

            landing fees

 

            insurance (hull, passenger, and war risk)

 

            passenger and aircraft handling costs

 

            glycol and de-icing services

 

            terminal facility rent

 

            security

 

            nonpayroll taxes

 

            services (other than aircraft and engine maintenance) performed by Delta or other affiliates of Delta.

 

Other Reimbursement Payments—Delta is also obligated to reimburse the Company, without mark-up, for Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”), United States Department of Transportation (“DOT”), or other government agency fines assessed against the Company due to an action or omission principally caused by Delta or other affiliates of Delta.

 

6



 

Nonreimbursable Payments—The Company is not entitled to be reimbursed for (1) bonuses and incentive compensation earned by its officers; (2) FAA, DOT, or other government agency fines assessed against the Company due to an action or omission, not principally caused by Delta or its affiliates; or (3) any Controllable Costs deemed unreasonable by Delta, in its reasonable discretion, provided that such determination must have been made during each year’s rate setting process.

 

Incentive Compensation—Monthly incentive compensation can be earned for the Company’s actual performance in three specific performance categories compared to a monthly goal established by Delta for (1) completion rate, (2) on-time arrival within 15 minutes, and (3) baggage handling, or bag deals per thousand passengers. In addition, the Company may earn semiannual incentive compensation for each of the three performance goals if the Company exceeds the applicable six-month goal. Incentive compensation is not recorded until fully earned at the end of the applicable period.

 

Margin Cap—If the Company’s actual annual margin it receives on all of its Direct Costs is greater than a certain percentage, the Company must make a payment to Delta for the excess over that percentage. For the six months ended June 30, 2005 and 2004, the Company was not required to make such a payment to Delta.

 

Termination—Delta may terminate the Agreement under the following circumstances: (1) at any time if the Company files a voluntary petition in bankruptcy, makes an assignment for the benefit of the Company’s creditors, or fails to secure the dismissal of any involuntary petition in bankruptcy within 60 days of the filing of such petition, the Company agrees to merge with or be acquired by any entity or to sell substantially all of its assets, unless the Company is the acquiring or surviving entity, there is a change of control of the Company, or the Company fails to meet certain safety or operational performance standards; (2) for cause if the Company breaches the Agreement and fails to cure the breach after a certain notice period; (3) in whole or in part without cause upon certain advance notice to the Company after the second anniversary of the effective date of the Agreement.

 

The Company may terminate the Agreement: (1) at any time if Delta files a voluntary petition in bankruptcy, makes an assignment for the benefit of its creditors, or fails to secure the dismissal of any involuntary petition in bankruptcy within 60 days of the filing of such petition or (2) for cause if Delta breaches the Agreement and fails to cure the breach after a certain notice period.

 

Aircraft and Affiliated Equipment Put and Call Rights—If Delta terminates the Agreement after January 1, 2005 without cause, the Company has the right (the “Put Right”) to require Delta (1) at the Company’s option to (a) purchase the Company’s owned aircraft and any of the related ground equipment, spare engines, spare parts, and improvements (“Affiliated Equipment”) at a price equal to the greater of the fair market value of such aircraft at the time of termination or any outstanding indebtedness owed by the Company on such aircraft and Affiliated Equipment (excluding any past due indebtedness) (the “Purchase Price”) or (b) to lease, based on the Purchase Price, such aircraft and Affiliated Equipment from the Company, each on terms mutually agreed upon by the parties and (2) with respect to its leased aircraft and Affiliated Equipment, to sublease or assume the lease on such aircraft and Affiliated Equipment, provided Delta is able to continue the leases on the same financial terms the Company had prior to the sublease or assignment. If the Company does not exercise its Put Right, Delta has the right to require the Company to (1) sell to Delta at the Purchase Price any of the owned aircraft and Affiliated Equipment that are terminated by Delta and (2) assign or sublease the lease obligations of any of the leased aircraft and Affiliated Equipment that are terminated by Delta which are under lease to the Company, subject to the terms and conditions provided under the Company’s financing for any such aircraft and Affiliated Equipment.

 

Exclusivity—The Agreement requires the Company, for aircraft allocated to the Delta Connection program, to obtain Delta’s approval to enter into a code-sharing agreement with any other carrier, to list flights under any other code, or to operate flights for any other carrier or on the Company’s behalf, except for certain charter flights and other limited circumstances. In addition, for any aircraft not designated as part of the Delta Connection program, neither the Company nor its affiliates may operate any of these aircraft for its own benefit or for any third party into or out of a limited number of cities located in the United States.

 

The Agreement does not prohibit Delta from serving, or entering into agreements with, other airlines to serve routes flown by the Company. Delta may extend or terminate the Agreement if, among other things, the Company merges with or sells its assets to another entity, is acquired by another entity, or if any person acquires more than a specified percentage of its stock.

 

Right of First Refusal—During the term of the Agreement, if the Company receives an offer from a third party to purchase, lease, sublease, encumber, or otherwise acquire any interest in, or to operate for a third party, the Company’s aircraft, option aircraft, slots, gates, or other facilities on its own behalf or for others during the term of the Agreement, Delta is entitled to be notified of the offer and to acquire such property on the same financial terms and conditions. This right of first refusal does not apply to any ordinary course refinancing or sale/leaseback by the Company of any such property.

 

Modified Annual Operating Plan—In the event that the Company’s projected Direct Costs, as factored into the preset block hour rates the Company is entitled to receive from Delta under the Agreement, materially change during a year due to actions by Delta after the Company’s annual operating plan has been established, Delta and the Company will mutually agree on a revised annual operating plan for the remainder of the year to take into account such changes as they relate to the Company’s Direct Costs-based block hour rate.

 

Differences Between the 2004 and 2005 Agreements—During 2004, the Company operated under an agreement which was similar in all respects to the 2005 Agreement with the exception of the following:

 

                  Fuel expense, during 2004, was treated as a Non-Controllable Cost.

 

                  During 2004, an annual margin band was applicable to the Company’s Non-Controllable Costs. If the Company’s actual annual margin on Non-Controllable Costs was more or less than established percentages, the Company received or made a payment to Delta to ensure the annual margin the Company received was within this band.  For the six months ended June 30, 2004, the Company recognized approximately $10,700,000 of income to ensure that the 2004 margin for the Company was within the margin band.

 

7



 

See Note 10 for additional information about the Company’s Delta Connection Agreement.

 

3.              RECENTLY ISSUED ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

In December 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards, (“SFAS”) No. 123 (Revised 2004), “Share-Based Payment” (“SFAS 123R”).  This standard replaces SFAS 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” and supersedes Accounting Principles Board (“APB”) Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees.” (“APB 25”)  It requires that the compensation cost of share-based payment transactions be recognized in financial statements based on the fair value of the equity or liability instruments issued.  This statement is effective for the Company beginning January 1, 2006.  The Company is evaluating the impact of SFAS 123R, including the transition options for adoption of this standard, on the 2006 Financial Statements.

 

4.              STOCK-BASED COMPENSATION

 

The Company participates in the Delta 2000 Performance Compensation Plan (“Plan”), under which certain of the Company’s employees are awarded stock options to purchase Delta’s common stock. The Company accounts for the stock-based compensation under the intrinsic value method in accordance with APB 25 and related interpretations.  No stock option compensation expense is recognized in the Company’s Statements of Operations because all stock options granted had an exercise price equal to the fair value of the underlying common stock on the grant date.

 

Stock options awarded under the Plan (1) have an exercise price equal to the fair market value of Delta’s common stock on the grant date, (2) become exercisable two or four years after the grant date, and (3) expire up to ten years after the grant date. There were no stock options granted during the six months ended June 30, 2005 and 2004.

 

The following table shows what the Company’s net income would have been for the six months ended June 30, 2005 and 2004 had the Company accounted for the awards granted under the Plan using the fair value method of accounting in SFAS 123, as amended by SFAS 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation – Transition and Disclosure – an Amendment to FASB Statement No. 123,” and the assumptions in the table above:

 

 

 

Six Months Ended
June 30,

 

 

 

2005

 

2004

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income (loss):

 

 

 

 

 

As reported

 

$

1,934

 

$

15,917

 

Deduct: total stock option compensation expense determined under the fair value-based method, net of tax

 

(472

)

(272

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

As adjusted for the fair value method under SFAS No. 123

 

$

1,462

 

$

15,645

 

 

In accordance with SFAS 123R, beginning January 1, 2006, the Company will recognize compensation expense for all stock-based compensation, including stock options. The Company is evaluating the impact of SFAS 123R on the 2005 Financial Statements. For additional information about SFAS 123R, see Note 3.

 

5.              SHAREOWNER’S EQUITY

 

The Company paid approximately $15,500,000 and $45,400,000 in dividends to ASA Holdings during the six months ended June 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively.

 

Comprehensive income consists of reported net income and unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, on marketable equity securities classified as available-for-sale related to the Company’s executive deferred compensation plan (see Note 8 for further discussion).  Total comprehensive income was approximately $1,900,000 and $15,900,000 for the six months ended June 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively.  Accumulated other comprehensive income was $24,000 as of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004.

 

8



 

6.                      DEBT

 

The following table summarizes the Company’s debt as of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004 (in thousands):

 

 

 

2005

 

2004

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fixed

 

 

 

 

 

5.78% to 6.23% notes due in semiannual installments
between 2007 and 2017

 

93,327

 

93,327

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Variable

 

 

 

 

 

6.61% notes due in monthly installments
between 2005 and 2006

 

181,711

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.59% to 5.36% notes due in semiannual installments
between 2005 and 2020

 

154,663

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.12% to 4.79% notes due in semiannual installments
between 2006 and 2019

 

201,912

 

201,912

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.91% notes due in semiannual installments
between 2005 and 2016

 

182,613

 

188,419

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

2.67% to 5.00% notes due in semiannual installments
between 2005 and 2021

 

90,424

 

94,012

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

6.56% to 6.61% promissory notes due
between 2005 and 2006

 

77,454

 

181,711

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.37% notes due in semiannual installments
between 2005 and 2012

 

84,589

 

87,317

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.93% notes due in semiannual installments
between 2005 and 2017

 

49,873

 

51,480

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.39% notes due in semiannual installments
between 2006 and 2017

 

50,106

 

50,106

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

4.52% to 5.27% notes due in semiannual installments
between 2005 and 2017

 

45,028

 

46,411

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.34% notes due in semiannual installments
between 2005 and 2012

 

9,399

 

9,702

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

5.04% notes due in monthly installments
between 2005 and 2020

 

164,768

 

169,172

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.23% line of credit from Parent due January 2006

 

 

155,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total debt

 

1,385,867

 

1,328,569

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Less current maturities

 

197,583

 

43,072

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total long-term debt

 

$

1,188,284

 

$

1,285,497

 

 

The interest rates for the variable rate debt above are presented using the interest rates in effect as of June 30, 2005, and are generally based on LIBOR plus a margin.

 

During 2004, the Company entered into an agreement, as amended in April 2005, to purchase the following aircraft:

 

                  16 CRJ-200 aircraft in 2005;

 

                  Four CRJ-700 aircraft in 2005; and

 

                  12 CRJ-200 aircraft in 2006.

 

9



 

The Company has an agreement with a manufacturer to finance, on a secured basis at the time of acquisition, the purchase of the 28 CRJ-200 aircraft. Borrowings under this agreement (1) will be due in installments for 15 years after the date of borrowing and (2) bear interest at LIBOR plus a margin. During the six months ended June 30, 2005, the Company completed the purchase of nine of these 28 aircraft. At June 30, 2005, approximately $155,000,000 of borrowings were outstanding under this agreement.

 

Since January 2002, the Company has entered into a series of aircraft-secured interim financing facilities with the manufacturer for certain future deliveries of regional jet aircraft.  Borrowings under this agreement (1) will be due 18 months after the date of borrowing (subject to earlier repayment if certain longer-term financing is obtained for these aircraft) and (2) bear interest at LIBOR plus a margin. The Company may elect to refinance these borrowings on a long-term secured basis; any such refinancing would be at an interest rate determined by reference to ten-year Treasury Notes plus a margin and have various repayment dates. During the six months ended June 30, 2005, the Company borrowed approximately $77,500,000 under this interim facility to complete the purchase of four CRJ-700 aircraft. As of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, the total borrowings outstanding under these facilities were approximately $77,500,000 and $182,000,000, respectively.  The Company receives interest subsidies on the total borrowings under this facility as described in Note 3 of the 2004 Annual Report. For the six months ended, June 30, 2004, the company received approximately $80,000 of interest subsidies.  As of June 30, 2004, the Company had no borrowings under this facility.  For the six months ended June 30, 2005, the Company received approximately $1,300,000 of interest subsidies and the effective variable rate for this facility was 4.3%.

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2005, the Company elected to refinance the borrowings under this interim facility as of December 31, 2004 with a separate aircraft-secured interim facility agreement between the Company, the manufacturer, and another lender.  The Company refinanced approximately $182,000,000 with terms that are substantially the same as the interim facility described above. The borrowings are due in monthly installments between 2005 and 2006.

 

In 2002, the Company also executed a line-of-credit agreement with an affiliate that allows the Company to borrow up to approximately $500,000,000.  During 2004, the Company amended the maximum borrowing amount to $250,000,000.  As of December 31, 2004, approximately $155,000,000 was outstanding under this agreement, which was scheduled to mature on January 27, 2006. As of December 31, 2004, borrowings under this line of credit were presented as long-term debt – affiliate on the Company’s Balance Sheet.  In June 2005, the Company settled the line-of-credit agreement in full.

 

As of June 30, 2005, all debt is secured by first mortgage liens on a total of 93 CRJ-200 and CRJ-700 aircraft, which had an aggregate net book value of approximately $1,597,683,000.

 

Future MaturitiesMaturities of long-term debt obligations including current maturities are as follows (in thousands):

 

Years ending December 31,

 

Principal Amount

 

Six months ending December 31, 2005

 

$

26,402

 

2006

 

304,209

 

2007

 

71,776

 

2008

 

74,975

 

2009

 

78,392

 

After 2009

 

830,113

 

 

 

 

 

Total

 

$

1,385,867

 

 

Debt CovenantsThe Company has no debt covenants as of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004.

 

As is customary in the airline industry, the Company’s aircraft lease and financing agreements require that the Company maintain certain levels of insurance coverage, including war-risk insurance. The Company was in compliance with these requirements as of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004. See Note 7 for additional information on war-risk insurance currently provided by the U.S. Government.

 

7.                      PURCHASE COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

Purchase Commitments—In September 1998 and June 2000, the Company entered into long-term acquisition agreements with Bombardier Aerospace, Inc. to purchase a total of 54 CRJ aircraft in a mix of 40-, 50-, and 70-seat configurations. Deliveries under these agreements commenced in December 2000 and continued through June 2005. These agreements also included options for the purchase of an additional 210 CRJ aircraft, which would be available for delivery through 2010. These options are exercised at the sole discretion of the Company and expire if they remain unexercised by certain dates.

 

The Company entered into an agreement, as amended in April 2005, to purchase the following 32 aircraft:

 

                  16 CRJ-200 aircraft in 2005;

 

                  12 CRJ-200 aircraft in 2006; and

 

                  Four CRJ-700 aircraft in 2005.

 

10



 

During the six months ended June 30, 2005, the Company completed the purchase of 13 of these 32 aircraft. The value of this firm order is approximately $331,000,000.  In conjunction with this agreement, the Company entered into a facility with a third party to finance, on a secured basis at the time of acquisition, the future deliveries of these regional jet aircraft. Borrowings under this facility (1) will be due in installments for 15 years after the date of borrowing and (2) bear interest at LIBOR plus a margin. The Company has no commitments related to the remaining 110 available options as of June 30, 2005.

 

Labor—Approximately 46% of the Company’s employees (primarily pilots, flight attendants, and flight dispatchers) are represented by unions.

 

The Company’s approximately 1,585 pilots are represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, International, and their collective bargaining agreement became amendable in September 2002. Negotiations are ongoing, and currently, the Company is operating under the existing contract.

 

The Company’s approximately 915 flight attendants are represented by the Association for Flight Attendants, and their collective bargaining agreement became amendable in September 2003. Negotiations are ongoing, and currently, the Company is operating under the existing contract.

 

In addition, because the Company is a Delta Connection Carrier (See Note 1), a strike or other job action by Delta’s employees could have a material adverse impact on the Company’s financial condition and operations.

 

Legal—The Company is involved in legal proceedings relating to employment practices, environmental issues and other matters concerning the Company’s business.  The Company cannot reasonably estimate the potential loss for certain legal proceedings because, for example, the litigation is in its early stages or the plaintiff does not specify damages being sought. Although the ultimate outcome of these legal proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty, the Company believes that the resolution of these actions will not have a material adverse effect on the financial statements.

 

War-Risk Insurance Contingency— As a result of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, aviation insurers (1) significantly reduced the maximum amount of insurance coverage available to commercial air carriers for liability to persons (other than employees or passengers) for claims resulting from acts of terrorism, war or similar events and (2) significantly increased the premiums for such coverage and for aviation insurance in general. Since September 24, 2001, the U.S. government has been providing U.S. airlines with war-risk insurance to cover losses, including those resulting from terrorism, to passengers, third parties (ground damage) and the aircraft hull. The coverage currently extends through December 31, 2005. The U.S. government is considering legislative options to extend some or all of the war-risk insurance provided to U.S. airlines beyond December 31, 2005; however, there can be no assurance that such an extension will occur.  The withdrawal of government support of airline war-risk insurance would require us to obtain war-risk insurance coverage commercially, if available. Such commercial insurance could have substantially less desirable coverage than currently provided by the U.S. government, may not be adequate to protect our risk of loss from future acts of terrorism, may result in a material increase to our operating expenses and may not be obtainable at all, resulting in an interruption to our operations.

 

General Indemnifications—The Company is the lessee under real estate leases. It is common in these commercial lease transactions for the Company, as the lessee, to agree to indemnify the lessor and other related third parties for tort, environmental, and other liabilities that arise out of or relate to the Company’s use or occupancy of these leased premises. Typically, this type of indemnity would make the Company responsible to indemnified parties for liabilities arising out of the conduct of, among others, contractors, licensees, and invitees at or in connection with the use or occupancy of the leased premises. Often, this indemnity extends to related liabilities arising from the negligence of the indemnified parties but usually excludes any liabilities caused by their gross negligence or willful misconduct.

 

The Company’s aircraft and other equipment lease and financing agreements typically contain provisions requiring the Company, as the lessee or obligor, to indemnify the other parties to those agreements, including certain related parties, against virtually any liabilities that might arise from the condition, use, or operation of the aircraft or such other equipment.

 

The Company believes that its insurance coverage would cover most of the Company’s exposure to such liabilities and related indemnities associated with the types of lease and financing agreements described above, including real estate leases.

 

Certain of the Company’s aircraft and other financing transactions also often include provisions which require the Company to make payments to preserve an expected economic return to the lenders if that economic return is diminished due to certain changes in law or regulations. In certain of these financing transactions, the Company also bears the risk of certain changes in tax laws that would subject payments to non-U.S. lenders to withholding taxes.

 

The Company cannot reasonably estimate the potential future payments under the indemnities and related provisions described above because the Company cannot predict when and under what circumstances these provisions may be triggered.

 

8.                      EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

 

401(k) Plan—All employees of the Company who have completed 90 days of employment are generally eligible to participate in the Company’s investment savings plan. For each dollar of salary deduction elected by an employee (up to 6% of an employee’s earnings), the Company has made a matching contribution of $0.20 to $0.50 (depending on the number of years of participation for each participant). After seven years of service by an employee, the Company will make a matching contribution of $0.75 for each dollar of salary reduction elected by an employee (up to 6% of an employee’s earnings).

 

11



 

Deferred Compensation Plan—The Company has an executive deferred compensation plan for a select group of highly compensated and management employees, as designated by the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company contributes from 10% to 15% of each participant’s base salary to the plan. The Company invests these contributions in employee-directed marketable equity securities which are classified as available-for-sale securities and recorded at fair market value on the Balance Sheets in other noncurrent assets.  These investments totaled approximately $1,652,000 and $1,599,000 at June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, respectively, and are available to the Company’s creditors in liquidation.  See Note 3 of the 2004 Annual Report for additional information.

 

The Company recorded approximately $2,300,000 and $2,100,000 in expenses for the six months ended June 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively, related to the plans discussed in the preceding two paragraphs. These expenses are included in salaries and related costs in the Statements of Operations.

 

9.                      RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 

The Company derives 100% of its passenger revenues from Delta under the Delta Connection Agreement discussed in Note 2.

 

For the six months ended June 30, 2005 and 2004, the Company reimbursed Delta or its affiliates for costs incurred on the Company’s behalf. Delta or its affiliates provided the Company with aircraft handling services and passenger handling services at certain airports. The Company expensed approximately $21,000,000 and $13,400,000, respectively, for these services. These amounts are recorded in contracted services on the accompanying Statements of Operations.

 

The Company has an arrangement with Delta whereby Delta provides certain administrative and financial services. In addition, certain Delta employees have been assigned to key administrative positions at the Company. The Company expensed approximately $900,000 and $1,000,000 for these services during the six months ended June 30, 2005 and 2004. These amounts are recorded in contracted services on the accompanying Statements of Operations.

 

For the six months ended June 30, 2005 and 2004, the Company purchased a portion of its aircraft fuel from an affiliate. Fuel purchases from this affiliate were approximately $69,000,000 and $22,600,000 during the six months ended June 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively.

 

As of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, approximately $51,027,000 and $19,600,000, respectively, are payable to Delta and Delta affiliates related to the agreements and services described above. These amounts are recorded as accounts payable—affiliate on the accompanying Balance Sheets.

 

As of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, approximately $11,700,000 and $35,900,000, respectively, are receivable from different affiliates of the Company. These amounts are recorded as accounts receivable—affiliate on the accompanying Balance Sheets.

 

During the six months ended June 30, 2005 and 2004, approximately $4,000,000 and $10,100,000, respectively, were received from Delta or its affiliates for airport customer service functions performed by the Company on the affiliate’s behalf. These payments are reflected as a reduction of other operating expense in the Company’s Statements of Operations.

 

Effective September 10, 2004, the Company entered into a credit agreement to extend credit to Delta for an amount not to exceed $250,000,000.  As of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004, the receivable balance with Delta was approximately $0 and $110,000,000, respectively.  The December 31, 2004 amount was recorded as note receivable—affiliate on the accompanying Balance Sheets.  The amount of interest earned for the six months ended June 30, 2005 was approximately $1,500,000.

 

Maintenance Agreement—Effective January 1, 2004, the Company and Delta entered into a new regional jet engine maintenance agreement. Under the agreement, Delta will perform certain engine maintenance services for the Company. Maintenance costs will continue to be included in direct costs under the new Delta Connection Agreement and, therefore, will be subject to reimbursement.  The Company expensed approximately $1,700,000 and $3,200,000 during the six months ended June 30, 2005 and 2004, respectively, under this agreement.

 

Cash Management—The Company’s cash and cash equivalents are currently managed under an arrangement whereby Delta provides certain financial services to the Company.  Approximately $76,409,000 and $72,249,000 of the Company’s cash and cash equivalents were invested under this arrangement as of June 30, 2005 and December 31, 2004.  These amounts are included in cash and cash equivalents on the accompanying Balance Sheets.

 

Stock-Based Compensation—The Company participates in certain of Delta’s stock-based compensation plans as discussed in Note 4.

 

12



 

10.               SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

 

Delta Bankruptcy—Substantially all of the Company’s revenues are attributable to the Delta Connection Agreement with Delta, who is currently reorganizing under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code.  The U.S. Bankruptcy Court, charged with administration of the Delta bankruptcy proceedings, has entered orders approving the assumption of the Company’s Delta Connection agreement.  Notwithstanding those approvals, Delta’s bankruptcy proceedings could still lead to many other unforeseen expenses, risks and uncertainties for the Company’s operations.  Although Delta has reported that they intend to emerge from their ongoing Chapter 11 reorganization efforts, the Delta Connection Agreement could still be terminated if Delta files for liquidation in bankruptcy, if their plan of reorganization is not approved in bankruptcy, or if Delta liquidates some or all of its assets through one or more transactions with third parties.  Even if Delta successfully emerges from their bankruptcy proceedings, they could later again file for bankruptcy.  Such events could jeopardize the Delta Connection operation, leave the Company unable to efficiently utilize the aircraft currently operated and the additional aircraft that the Company is obligated to purchase, or result in other outcomes which could have a material adverse effect on the operations and financial condition of the Company.  There is no assurance that events that may occur in the Delta bankruptcy proceedings, such as contract negotiations between Delta and other code-share partners, will not negatively impact operations.  Delta has required, and will likely continue to require, the Company’s and SkyWest’s participation in efforts to reduce costs and improve their financial position.  In particular, these challenges could translate into lower utilization rates of aircraft, lower departure rates, or decreased operating margins.  The Company believes these developments could impact many aspects of its operations and financial performance, and that margins will be less predictable than in prior periods.

 

ASA Delta Connection Agreement—In connection with the sale of the Company to SkyWest, the Company and Delta entered into the ASA Delta Connection Agreement, as of September 8, 2005.  As of September 30, 2005, the Company operated 104 CRJ200s, 35 CRJ700s and 12 ATRs aircraft for Delta under the ASA Delta Connection Agreement.  Additionally, between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2007, 6 CRJ200s and 22 CRJ700s are scheduled to be added to the Company’s fleet for use in the Delta Connection program.  Further, prior to December 31, 2007, 12 ATRs are scheduled to be removed from the Company’s fleet.  Under the terms of the ASA Delta Connection Agreement, the Company operates these aircraft to provide Delta Connection service between Delta hubs and cities designated by Delta.  As of September 30, 2005, the Company was operating more than 900 Delta Connection flights per day between Atlanta, Cincinnati, Salt Lake City, and designated outlying cities.  With respect to these flights, Delta provides reservation, check-in and other passenger services, signage, tickets, baggage tags, ticket wallets and similar items and also controls scheduling, ticket prices and seat inventories.  Delta has the right to determine the manner in which the Company utilizes airport gates in connection with Delta Connection flights.  Under the ASA Delta Connection Agreement, Delta is entitled to all passenger, cargo and other revenues associated with each flight.

 

In exchange for providing the designated number of flights and performing it’s other obligations under the ASA Delta Connection Agreement, the Company receives from Delta on a weekly basis (i) reimbursement for 100% of its direct costs related to Delta Connection flights plus (ii) if the Company completes at certain minimum percentage of its Delta Connection flights, an amount equal to a certain percentage of the direct costs related to the Delta Connection flights (not including fuel costs).  Costs directly reimbursed by Delta under the ASA Delta Connection Agreement include costs related to fuel, landing fees, passenger catering, passenger liability insurance, ground handling, aircraft property tax and aircraft maintenance and ownership.  The ASA Delta Connection Agreement also provides for both monthly and quarterly incentive compensation based upon the Company’s operational performance, including on-time arrival performance and completion percentage rates.

 

Commencing in 2008 and continuing thereafter, if Delta in certain circumstances seeks to place additional aircraft into service in the Delta Connection program, the Company will be offered the opportunity to bid on such additional aircraft to the extent required to maintain its percentage of aircraft within the Delta Connection program as of December 31, 2007 (such percentage, the “ASA Percentage”).  If the Company is not awarded a portion of such additional flying, it shall be offered the opportunity to match the economic terms and conditions of the winning bid, so as to maintain the ASA Percentage.  If the Company elects to match the winning bid, additional Delta Connection aircraft will be added to the scope of the ASA Delta Connection Agreement (as modified with respect to such additional aircraft to account for the economic terms and conditions of the winning bid with respect to such aircraft) so as to maintain the ASA Percentage.

 

Subject to reduction as set forth in the ASA Delta Connection Agreement, the Company will be scheduled to operate not less than a certain percentage of all Delta Connection departures in Atlanta and a certain minimum number of it’s flights under the ASA Delta Connection Agreement will be at Atlanta.  Further, the Company and its affiliates may not enter into any code-share or similar agreement with any party other than Delta that imposes prohibitions or restrictions on it, including geographical or flight restrictions.  Other than the foregoing, the ASA Delta Connection Agreement does not prohibit the Company from operating as a code-share partner with another carrier.

 

The ASA Delta Connection Agreement terminates on September 8, 2020, unless Delta elects to exercise its option to extend its term for up to four additional five-year terms by providing the Company written notice thereof no later than 180 days prior the expiration of the initial term or any additional term, as applicable.  Additionally, if either (i) SkyWest or the Company agrees to merge into or with any entity, to be acquired by any entity, to sell substantially all of SkyWest’s or the Company’s assets or to enter into a letter of intent regarding any of the foregoing, unless Skywest or the Company are the surviving or acquiring entity or the ultimate beneficial owner thereof immediately following the transaction (such transaction, a “Merger”) or (ii) a party acquires more than a certain percentage of Skywest’s voting power or outstanding common stock or that of the Company, unless Skywest or the Company own at least a certain percentage of the voting power of the acquiring party following such transaction (such transaction, a “Change of Control”), then Delta shall have the right to extend the term of the ASA Delta Connection Agreement for up to two additional five-year terms beyond the applicable termination date or to terminate such agreement as set forth below.

 

13



 

The ASA Delta Connection Agreement may be subject to early termination by either the Company or Delta under various circumstances including:

 

                  if either Delta or the Company files for bankruptcy, reorganization or similar action (or if any such action is imminent) or if either Delta or the Company makes an assignment for the benefit of creditors;

 

                  if either Delta or the Company commits a material breach of the ASA Delta Connection Agreement, subject to advance notice and cure rights; or

 

                  upon the occurrence of an event of force majeure (including certain labor-related events) that continues for a certain period of time after written notice from the other party regarding such event.

 

In addition, Delta may immediately terminate the ASA Delta Connection Agreement upon the occurrence of one or more of the following events, among others:

 

                  if either SkyWest or the Company enters into a Merger;

 

                  if either SkyWest or the Company experiences a Change of Control;

 

                  if the Company’s safety level is not reasonably satisfactory to Delta;

 

                  If the Company fails to conduct all flight operations and maintains all aircraft under the ASA Delta Connection Agreement in compliance in all material respects with applicable government regulations;

 

                  if the Company fails to maintain a specified completion rate with respect to the flights it operates for Delta during a specified period, subject to certain exceptions;

 

                  if, under certain circumstances, Delta has a right to terminate the SkyWest Airlines Delta Connection Agreement; or

 

                  if the Company fails to maintain competitive base rate costs; provided that it has the right to adjust its rates prior to any such termination.

 

In addition, the Company may terminate the ASA Delta Connection Agreement if SkyWest Airlines has the right to terminate the SkyWest Airlines Delta Connection Agreement.

 

In general, the Company has agreed to indemnify Delta, and Delta has agreed to indemnify the Company, for any damages caused by any breaches of the parties’ respective obligations under the ASA Delta Connection Agreement or caused by their respective actions or inactions under such agreement.

 

Subject to certain exceptions, if the Company receives an offer, bid or other expression of inquiry from a third party to purchase, lease, sublease, encumber or otherwise acquire any interest in, or to operate on behalf of a third party, any aircraft, slots, gates or other facilities used in connection with the ASA Delta Connection Agreement that the Company owns or leases, and which it desires to accept, Delta has a right of first refusal to acquire the applicable aircraft, slots, gates or other facilities which the Company desires to dispose of on the same terms as those offered to it by the third party.

 

* * * * * *

 

14


EX-99.3 4 a05-20173_1ex99d3.htm REPORT OF DELOITTE & TOUCHE

Exhibit 99.3

 

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS’ REPORT

 

Board of Directors
Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc.

Atlanta, Georgia

 

We have audited the accompanying balance sheets of Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc. (the “Company”), a wholly owned subsidiary of ASA Holdings, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Delta Air Lines, Inc. (“Delta”), as of December 31, 2004 and 2003, and the related statements of operations, shareowner’s equity, and cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2004. These financial statements are the responsibility of the Company’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audits.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards as established by the Auditing Standards Board (United States) and in accordance with the auditing standards of the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States). Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement. The Company is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of its internal control over financial reporting. Our audits included consideration of internal control over financial reporting as a basis for designing audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Company’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion. An audit also includes examining, on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

In our opinion, such financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Company as of December 31, 2004 and 2003, and the results of its operations and its cash flows for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 2004, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared assuming that the Company will continue as a going concern. As discussed in Note 1 to the financial statements, Delta has experienced recurring losses from operations, faces significant liquidity issues, and may need to seek protection under Chapter 11 of the United States Bankruptcy Code. These matters raise substantial doubt about Delta’s ability to continue as a going concern. Substantially all of the Company’s revenue is derived from Delta. In addition, Delta has control of and responsibility for certain of the Company’s critical operating activities. Delta’s financial condition along with this dependence on Delta raises substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern. Delta’s plans concerning these matters are also discussed in Note 1. The financial statements do not include any adjustments that might result from the outcome of this uncertainty.

 

As discussed in Note 2 to the financial statements, effective January 1, 2003, the Company and Delta changed the method by which the Company is compensated by Delta under the Delta Connection Agreement.

 

As discussed in Note 3 to the financial statements, effective January 1, 2002, the Company changed its method of accounting for goodwill and other intangible assets to conform to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 142.

 

 

/s/ Deloitte & Touche LLP

 

 

Atlanta, Georgia

March 30, 2005

 

1



 

ATLANTIC SOUTHEAST AIRLINES, INC.

 

BALANCE SHEETS

DECEMBER 31, 2004 AND 2003

(In thousands, except share data)

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

ASSETS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT ASSETS:

 

 

 

 

 

Cash and cash equivalents

 

$

72,249

 

$

219,994

 

Restricted cash

 

12,482

 

7,500

 

Accounts receivable, net of an allowance for uncollectible accounts of $58 at December 31, 2004 and $550 at December 31, 2003

 

9,381

 

2,688

 

Accounts receivable—affiliate

 

35,915

 

26,455

 

Note receivable—Parent

 

110,000

 

 

Expendable parts and supplies inventory, net of an allowance for obsolescence of $7,038 at December 31, 2004 and $12,007 at Deceber 31, 2003

 

21,685

 

22,774

 

Prepaid expenses and other

 

42,225

 

37,281

 

Deferred income taxes

 

12,044

 

13,698

 

Total current assets

 

315,981

 

330,390

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT:

 

 

 

 

 

Flight equipment

 

1,677,785

 

1,357,069

 

Accumulated depreciation

 

(159,955

)

(109,705

)

Flight equipment, net

 

1,517,830

 

1,247,364

 

Ground property and equipment

 

59,626

 

56,008

 

Accumulated depreciation

 

(21,312

)

(14,524

)

Ground property and equipment, net

 

38,314

 

41,484

 

Advance payments for equipment

 

45,334

 

11,120

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total property and equipment, net

 

1,601,478

 

1,299,968

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OTHER ASSETS:

 

 

 

 

 

Goodwill

 

 

498,736

 

Retirement investments

 

1,599

 

1,431

 

Other noncurrent assets, net

 

38,958

 

36,020

 

Total other assets

 

40,557

 

536,187

 

TOTAL ASSETS

 

$

1,958,016

 

$

2,166,545

 

 

See notes to Financial Statements.

 

2



 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

LIABILITIES AND SHAREOWNER’S EQUITY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CURRENT LIABILITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

Current maturities of long-term debt

 

$

43,072

 

$

53,456

 

Accounts payable

 

43,854

 

56,521

 

Accounts payable—affiliate

 

19,579

 

26,271

 

Accrued salaries and related benefits

 

27,860

 

22,603

 

Accrued liabilities and deferred credits

 

15,345

 

16,847

 

Total current liabilities

 

149,710

 

175,698

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NONCURRENT LIABILITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

Long-term debt

 

1,130,497

 

909,664

 

Long-term debt—Parent

 

155,000

 

65,000

 

Deferred income taxes

 

129,064

 

109,877

 

Deferred gains on sale and leaseback transactions

 

2,971

 

3,210

 

Retirement liability and other noncurrent liabilities

 

7,268

 

5,643

 

Total noncurrent liabilities

 

1,424,800

 

1,093,394

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES (Note 9)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SHAREOWNER’S EQUITY:

 

 

 

 

 

Common shares, $0.10 par value; 100,000 shares authorized, 1,000 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 2004 and 2003

 

 

 

Additional paid-in capital

 

817,896

 

817,896

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(Accumulated deficit) retained earnings

 

(434,414

)

79,569

 

Accumulated other comprehensive income (loss)

 

24

 

(12

)

Total shareowner’s equity

 

383,506

 

897,453

 

TOTAL LIABILITIES AND SHAREOWNER’S EQUITY

 

$

1,958,016

 

$

2,166,545

 

 

See notes to Financial Statements.

 

3



 

ATLANTIC SOUTHEAST AIRLINES, INC.

 

STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004, 2003 AND 2002

(In thousands)

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

2002

 

OPERATING REVENUES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Passenger

 

$

947,608

 

$

836,931

 

$

748,287

 

Cargo

 

 

 

2,579

 

Other, net

 

11

 

 

1,308

 

Total operating revenues

 

947,619

 

836,931

 

752,174

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATING EXPENSES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Salaries and related costs

 

292,258

 

266,449

 

225,363

 

Aircraft fuel

 

197,541

 

128,564

 

89,718

 

Aircraft maintenance materials and outside repairs

 

87,394

 

78,929

 

67,964

 

Aircraft rent

 

68,670

 

69,362

 

69,197

 

Contracted services

 

65,973

 

66,219

 

65,589

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

71,707

 

54,076

 

39,938

 

Landing fees and other rents

 

44,623

 

41,729

 

39,555

 

Passenger commissions

 

 

 

9,482

 

Other selling expenses

 

600

 

470

 

23,770

 

Asset writedowns

 

 

 

31,393

 

Impairment of goodwill

 

498,736

 

 

 

Appropriations Act reimbursements

 

 

(22,438

)

 

Stablilzation Act compensation

 

 

 

(367

)

Other

 

33,594

 

31,854

 

41,473

 

Total operating expenses

 

1,361,096

 

715,214

 

703,075

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATING (LOSS) INCOME

 

(413,477

)

121,717

 

49,099

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OTHER (EXPENSE) INCOME:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income

 

3,092

 

2,907

 

3,182

 

Interest expense, net of amounts capitalized and interest subsidies

 

(38,218

)

(28,844

)

(18,149

)

Miscellaneous income (expense), net

 

140

 

(18

)

(242

)

Total other expense, net

 

(34,986

)

(25,955

)

(15,209

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(LOSS) INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES

 

(448,463

)

95,762

 

33,890

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INCOME TAX EXPENSE

 

(20,119

)

(38,147

)

(13,857

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NET (LOSS) INCOME

 

$

(468,582

)

$

57,615

 

$

20,033

 

 

See notes to Financial Statements.

 

4



 

ATLANTIC SOUTHEAST AIRLINES, INC.

 

STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004, 2003 AND 2002

(In thousands)

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

2002

 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net (loss) income

 

$

(468,582

)

$

57,615

 

$

20,033

 

Adjustments to reconcile net (loss) income to net cash provided by operating activities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

71,707

 

54,076

 

39,938

 

Impairment of goodwill

 

498,736

 

 

 

Gain on the sale of equipment

 

(1,684

)

 

 

Asset Writedowns

 

 

 

31,393

 

Deferred income taxes

 

20,119

 

38,147

 

32,144

 

Rental expense less than payments

 

(13,036

)

(9,554

)

(19,805

)

Changes in certain current assets and liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Increase in accounts receivable, net

 

(20,061

)

(798

)

(10,587

)

Increase in expendable inventory and prepaid expenses

 

(3,671

)

(10,041

)

(4,466

)

(Decrease) increase in accounts payable

 

(12,667

)

5,523

 

10,233

 

(Decrease) increase in accounts payable - affiliate

 

(6,692

)

6,574

 

14,119

 

Increase in accrued salaries and related benefits

 

5,257

 

9,336

 

3,540

 

Increase in accrued liabilities

 

(1,256

)

5,654

 

1,665

 

Other, net

 

(809

)

473

 

(161

)

Net cash provided by operating activities

 

67,361

 

157,005

 

118,046

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Property and equipment additions:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Flight equipment, including advance payments

 

(130,950

)

(182,927

)

(168,166

)

Ground property and equipment

 

(4,668

)

(7,314

)

(13,843

)

Proceeds from sales of flight equipment

 

3,371

 

9,246

 

16,800

 

Increase in restricted cash

 

(4,982

)

(2,940

)

(4,560

)

Purchases of available-for-sale securities

 

(176

)

(138

)

(136

)

Advances to parent

 

(110,000

)

 

 

Sales of available-for-sale securities

 

 

172

 

143

 

Net cash used in investing activities

 

(247,405

)

(183,901

)

(169,762

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Proceeds from debt issuance

 

266,159

 

349,932

 

774,928

 

Payments on long-term debt

 

(186,093

)

(257,616

)

(691,758

)

Dividends paid

 

(45,401

)

(45,650

)

(45,400

)

Proceeds from capital contribution

 

 

 

50,000

 

Debt issuance cost

 

(2,366

)

(9,116

)

(5,374

)

Net cash provided by financing activities

 

32,299

 

37,550

 

82,396

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NET (DECREASE) INCREASE IN CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

 

(147,745

)

10,654

 

30,680

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS—Beginning of year

 

219,994

 

209,340

 

178,660

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS—End of year

 

$

72,249

 

$

219,994

 

$

209,340

 

 

See notes to Financial Statements.

 

5



 

SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES OF CASH (REFUNDED) PAID FOR:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income taxes

 

$

(683

)

$

(9,368

)

$

(1,477

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest, net of amounts capitalized

 

$

36,595

 

$

29,965

 

$

15,553

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NONCASH TRANSACTIONS—

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Aircraft delivered under seller-financing

 

$

220,383

 

$

212,302

 

$

367,448

 

 

See notes to Financial Statements.

 

6



 

ATLANTIC SOUTHEAST AIRLINES, INC.

 

STATEMENTS OF SHAREOWNER’S EQUITY

FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004, 2003, AND 2002

(In thousands)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Accumulated

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Additional

 

Retained

 

Other

 

 

 

 

 

Common

 

Paid-In

 

Earnings

 

Comprehensive

 

 

 

 

 

Stock

 

Capital

 

(Deficit)

 

Income (Loss)

 

Total

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BALANCE—December 31, 2001

 

$

 

$

767,896

 

$

92,971

 

$

(76

)

$

860,791

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

 

 

20,033

 

 

20,033

 

Other comprehensive income, net of tax of $30

 

 

 

 

(48

)

(48

)

Total comprehensive income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

19,985

 

Dividends

 

 

 

 

 

(45,400

)

 

 

(45,400

)

Contributions

 

 

50,000

 

 

 

50,000

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BALANCE—December 31, 2002

 

 

817,896

 

67,604

 

(124

)

885,376

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income

 

 

 

57,615

 

 

57,615

 

Other comprehensive income, net of tax of $73

 

 

 

 

112

 

112

 

Total comprehensive income

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

57,727

 

Dividends

 

 

 

(45,650

)

 

(45,650

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BALANCE—December 31, 2003

 

 

817,896

 

79,569

 

(12

)

897,453

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net loss

 

 

 

(468,582

)

 

(468,582

)

Other comprehensive income, net of tax of $21

 

 

 

 

36

 

36

 

Total comprehensive loss

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(468,546

)

Dividends

 

 

 

(45,401

)

 

(45,401

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BALANCE—December 31, 2004

 

$

 

$

817,896

 

$

(434,414

)

$

24

 

$

383,506

 

 

See notes to Financial Statements.

 

7



 

ATLANTIC SOUTHEAST AIRLINES, INC.

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

AS OF AND FOR THE YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31, 2004, 2003, AND 2002

 

1.       BASIS OF PRESENTATION

 

Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc. (the “Company”) is a connection carrier (“Delta Connection Carrier”) for Delta Air Lines, Inc. (“Delta”). The Company is a regional airline serving airports in the United States, Canada, Mexico, and the Caribbean. The Company is a wholly owned subsidiary of ASA Holdings, Inc. (“ASA Holdings”), which is ultimately a wholly owned subsidiary of Delta. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”).

 

The Company has reclassified certain other prior period amounts in the financial statements to be consistent with its current period presentation. The effect of these reclassifications is not material.

 

Going Concern—The accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with GAAP on a going concern basis, which contemplates the realization of assets and the satisfaction of liabilities in the normal course of business.  The Company derives substantially all of its revenues from Delta, and is reliant on Delta to continue operations in the normal course.  Delta’s financial condition along with the Company’s dependence on Delta causes substantial doubt about the Company’s ability to continue as a going concern.  These financial statements do not include any adjustments relating to the recoverability of assets and classification of liabilities that might be necessary should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern.

 

Delta’s business environment in which it operates and its financial condition are discussed further below. Note 2 provides additional information about the Delta Connection Agreement (“The Agreement”) between Delta and the Company, including compensation and cost reimbursements the Company receives from Delta in exchange for the Company operating all of its aircraft for Delta.

 

Delta’s Financial Results

 

Delta’s financial performance continued to deteriorate during 2004, the fourth consecutive year it reported substantial losses.  Additionally, Delta’s unrestricted cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments were $1.8 billion at December 31, 2004, down from $2.7 billion at December 31, 2003.  Based on these results, Delta has made the determination to make fundamental changes in the way Delta does business.

 

In light of Delta’s significant losses and the decline in its cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments, Delta is making permanent structural changes which are intended to appropriately align its cost structure with the revenue it can generate in this business environment and to enable it to compete with low-cost carriers.

 

Delta’s Transformation Plan

 

In 2002, Delta began its profit improvement program, which had a goal of reducing unit costs and increasing revenues. Delta made significant progress under this program, but increases in aircraft fuel prices and pension and related expense, and declining domestic passenger mile yields have offset a large portion of these benefits. Accordingly, Delta will need substantial further reductions in its cost structure to achieve viability.

 

At the end of 2003, Delta began a strategic reassessment of its business. The goal of this project was to develop and implement a comprehensive and competitive business strategy that addresses the airline industry environment and positions Delta to achieve long-term success. As part of this project, Delta evaluated the appropriate cost reduction targets and the actions it should take to seek to achieve these targets.

 

In September 2004, Delta outlined key elements of its transformation plan, which are intended to deliver approximately $5 billion in annual benefits by the end of 2006 (as compared to 2002) while also improving the service it provides to customers. Elements of the transformation plan include (1) non-pilot operational improvements, (2) pilot cost reductions and (3) other benefits. By the end of 2004, Delta achieved approximately $2.3 billion of the $5 billion in targeted benefits under its profit improvement program. Delta has identified, and begun implementation of, key initiatives to obtain the remaining $2.7 billion in targeted benefits, which it believes it is on track to achieve by the end of 2006.

 

Delta’s Liquidity

 

Due to the difficult revenue environment, historically high fuel prices and other cost pressures, Delta borrowed $2.4 billion in 2004 to fund daily operations and capital requirements, repay debt obligations and increase its liquidity. These borrowings included $830 million that Delta obtained during the December 2004 quarter under its financing agreements with GE Commercial Finance and American Express Travel Related Services Company, Inc. (“Amex”). These new financing agreements are essential elements of Delta’s ongoing restructuring efforts. Delta’s borrowings under these agreements are secured by substantially all of its assets that were unencumbered immediately prior to the consummation of those agreements.

 

8



 

At December 31, 2004, Delta had cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments totaling $1.8 billion. In March 2005, Delta borrowed the final installment of $250 million under its financing agreement with Amex. Delta has commitments from a third party to finance on a long-term secured basis the purchase of 32 regional jet aircraft to be delivered in 2005 (“Regional Jet Credit Facility”). Delta has no other undrawn lines of credit.  Additionally, Delta has significant obligations and commitments totaling approximately $3,000,000,000 related to operating lease payments, interest payments, debt maturities and pension funding in 2005 and thereafter. Absent the enactment of new federal legislation which reduces Delta’s pension funding obligations during the next several years, its annual pension funding obligations for each of 2006 through 2009 will be significantly higher than in 2005 and could have a material adverse impact on its liquidity.  During 2005, Delta also expects capital expenditures to be approximately $1,000,000,000, which includes $520,000,000 to purchase 32 regional jets which Delta intends to finance under the Regional Jet Credit Facility.

 

As discussed above, Delta does not expect to achieve the full $5 billion in targeted benefits under its transformation plan until the end of 2006. As Delta transitions to a lower cost structure, it will continue to face significant challenges due to low passenger mile yields, historically high fuel prices and other cost pressures related to interest expense and pension and related expense. Accordingly, Delta believes that it will record a substantial net loss in 2005, and that its cash flows from operations will not be sufficient to meet all of its liquidity needs for that period.

 

Delta currently expects to meet its liquidity needs for 2005 from cash flows from operations, available cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments, the Regional Jet Credit Facility, and the final $250 million borrowing under its financing agreement with Amex. Because substantially all of Delta’s assets are encumbered and its credit ratings are low, Delta does not expect to be able to obtain any material amount of additional debt financing. Unless Delta is able to sell assets or access the capital markets by issuing equity or convertible debt securities, Delta expects that its cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments will be substantially lower at December 31, 2005 than at the end of 2004.

 

Delta’s financing agreements with GE Commercial Finance and Amex include covenants that impose substantial restrictions on its financial and business operations. Although under Delta’s business plan it expects to be in compliance with these covenants in 2005, Delta does not expect to exceed either of the required levels by a significant margin. Accordingly, if any of the assumptions underlying Delta’s business plan proves to be incorrect, it might not be in compliance with these covenants, which could result in the outstanding borrowings under these agreements becoming immediately due and payable (unless the lenders waive these covenant violations). If this were to occur, Delta would need to seek to restructure under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code.

 

Many of the material assumptions underlying Delta’s business plan (including assumptions about jet fuel prices, passenger mile yields, interest rates, and pension funding obligations) are not within its control. If the assumptions underlying Delta’s business plan prove to be incorrect in any material adverse respect and it is unable to sell assets or access the capital markets, or if its level of cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments otherwise declines to an unacceptably low level, Delta would need to seek to restructure under Chapter 11 of the U.S. Bankruptcy Code.  If Delta were to seek to restructure under Chapter 11, this would have a material adverse impact on the Company’s financial statements.

 

2.                      DELTA CONNECTION AGREEMENT

 

Summary—Effective January 1, 2003, Delta and the Company amended their Agreement.  Under the Agreement the Company is compensated by Delta under a capacity purchase arrangement. The new Agreement expires ten years from its effective date.  The Agreement utilized a different compensation arrangement for the year 2002.  See Note 3, Section C for information regarding the compensation structure in effect for the year ended December, 31, 2002.  See note 13 for additional information about an amendment to the Agreement that was effective as of January 1, 2005. See Note 13 for additional information about an amendment to the Agreement that was effective as of January 1, 2005.

 

Under the Agreement covering periods after fiscal year 2002, Delta retains control and responsibility for all of the Company’s scheduling, ticket pricing, and seat inventories and is entitled to all revenues associated with the operation of the Company’s aircraft. The Company is responsible for operation of the aircraft and is compensated by Delta based on a market-based negotiated “block hour” rate multiplied by the actual block hours flown plus a mark-up if a certain flight completion rate is achieved, subject to certain adjustments and limitations.

 

Under the Agreement, the Company is entitled to receive at the end of each month a payment for each aircraft “block hour” the Company operates, based on an annual operating plan and projected operating costs. “Block hour” generally is defined as the time for each flight stage, measured from when the aircraft leaves the airport gate or stand to when it arrives at the gate or stand at the destination airport. The Company’s block hour rates are pre-set annually in advance through a rate setting negotiation with Delta. The established rates are designed to reimburse the Company for its estimated, market-based direct operating costs and expenses that are controllable by the Company (“Controllable Costs”) and not controllable by the Company (“Non-Controllable Costs” and collectively with Controllable Costs, its “Direct Costs”). The established rates do not take into consideration certain actual variations over the ensuing contract year in the pre-set costs and expenses. Direct Costs generally exclude any prepaid maintenance and are determined in accordance with GAAP.

 

Base Compensation—If the Company achieves a certain predetermined monthly completion rate for its Delta Connection flights, the Company is entitled to be paid by Delta a monthly “Base Mark-Up” of its monthly Direct Costs, subject to certain limitations and adjustments (“Base Compensation”).

 

9



 

The Company’s Controllable Costs, for purposes of establishing its Base Compensation, include the following:

 

            wages, salaries, and benefits

 

            payroll taxes

 

            depreciation and amortization

 

            contracted services (other than with Delta or other affiliates of Delta)

 

            aircraft and engine maintenance (including Delta or other Delta affiliate-provided maintenance)

 

            facility rent (other than terminal)

 

            aircraft and other equipment rent

 

            passenger service expenses (other than with Delta or other affiliates of Delta)

 

            interrupted operations

 

            other miscellaneous expense

 

            lost/damaged baggage

 

            aircraft interest expense

 

            start-up training costs associated with operating any subsequently added aircraft

 

            commissary supplies

 

            other cash costs.

 

The Company’s Non-Controllable Costs, for purposes of establishing its Base Compensation, include the following:

 

            landing fees

 

            insurance (hull, passenger, and war risk)

 

            passenger and aircraft handling costs

 

            fuel

 

            glycol and de-icing services

 

            terminal facility rent

 

            security

 

            nonpayroll taxes

 

            services (other than aircraft and engine maintenance) performed by Delta or other affiliates of Delta.

 

Other Reimbursement Payments—Delta is also obligated to reimburse the Company, without mark-up, for Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”), United States Department of Transportation (“DOT”), or other government agency fines assessed against the Company due to an action or omission principally caused by Delta or other affiliates of Delta.

 

Nonreimbursable Payments—The Company is not entitled to be reimbursed for (1) bonuses and incentive compensation earned by its officers; (2) FAA, DOT, or other government agency fines assessed against the Company due to an action or omission, not principally caused by Delta or its affiliates; or (3) any Controllable Costs deemed unreasonable by Delta, in its reasonable discretion, provided that such determination must have been made during each year’s rate setting process.

 

Incentive Compensation—Monthly incentive compensation can be earned for the Company’s actual performance in three specific performance categories compared to a monthly goal established by Delta for (1) completion rate, (2) on-time arrival within 15 minutes, and (3) baggage handling, or bag deals per thousand passengers. In addition, the Company may earn semiannual incentive compensation for each of the three performance goals if the Company exceeds the applicable six-month goal. Incentive compensation is not recorded until fully earned at the end of the applicable period.

 

Margin Band; Margin Cap—In addition, an annual margin band is applicable to the Company’s Non-Controllable Costs. If the Company’s actual annual margin on Non-Controllable Costs is more or less than established percentages, the Company will receive or make a payment to Delta to ensure the annual margin the Company receives is within this band.  These amounts are recorded in passenger revenue on the Statement of Operations. For the years ended December 31, 2004 and 2003, the Company received approximately $56,683,000 and $5,445,000, respectively, from Delta to ensure that the 2004 and 2003 margins for the Company were within the margin band. Also, if the Company’s actual annual margin it receives on all of its Direct Costs is greater than a certain percentage, the Company must make a payment to Delta for the excess over that percentage. For the years ended December 31, 2004 and 2003, the Company was not required to make such a payment to Delta.

 

10



 

Termination—Delta may terminate the Agreement under the following circumstances: (1) at any time if the Company files a voluntary petition in bankruptcy, makes an assignment for the benefit of the Company’s creditors, or fails to secure the dismissal of any involuntary petition in bankruptcy within 60 days of the filing of such petition, the Company agrees to merge with or be acquired by any entity or to sell substantially all of its assets, unless the Company is the acquiring or surviving entity, there is a change of control of the Company, or the Company fails to meet certain safety or operational performance standards; (2) for cause if the Company breaches the Agreement and fails to cure the breach after a certain notice period; (3) in whole or in part without cause upon certain advance notice to the Company after the second anniversary of the effective date of the Agreement.

 

The Company may terminate the Agreement: (1) at any time if Delta files a voluntary petition in bankruptcy, makes an assignment for the benefit of its creditors, or fails to secure the dismissal of any involuntary petition in bankruptcy within 60 days of the filing of such petition or (2) for cause if Delta breaches the Agreement and fails to cure the breach after a certain notice period.

 

Aircraft and Affiliated Equipment Put and Call Rights—If Delta terminates the Agreement after January 1, 2005 without cause, the Company has the right (the “Put Right”) to require Delta (1) at the Company’s option to (a) purchase the Company’s owned aircraft and any of the related ground equipment, spare engines, spare parts, and improvements (“Affiliated Equipment”) at a price equal to the greater of the fair market value of such aircraft at the time of termination or any outstanding indebtedness owed by the Company on such aircraft and Affiliated Equipment (excluding any past due indebtedness) (the “Purchase Price”) or (b) to lease, based on the Purchase Price, such aircraft and Affiliated Equipment from the Company, each on terms mutually agreed upon by the parties and (2) with respect to its leased aircraft and Affiliated Equipment, to sublease or assume the lease on such aircraft and Affiliated Equipment, provided Delta is able to continue the leases on the same financial terms the Company had prior to the sublease or assignment. If the Company does not exercise its Put Right, Delta has the right to require the Company to (1) sell to Delta at the Purchase Price any of the owned aircraft and Affiliated Equipment that are terminated by Delta and (2) assign or sublease the lease obligations of any of the leased aircraft and Affiliated Equipment that are terminated by Delta which are under lease to the Company, subject to the terms and conditions provided under the Company’s financing for any such aircraft and Affiliated Equipment.

 

Exclusivity—The Agreement requires the Company, for aircraft allocated to the Delta Connection program, to obtain Delta’s approval to enter into a code-sharing agreement with any other carrier, to list flights under any other code, or to operate flights for any other carrier or on the Company’s behalf, except for certain charter flights and other limited circumstances. In addition, for any aircraft not designated as part of the Delta Connection program, neither the Company nor its affiliates may operate any of these aircraft for its own benefit or for any third party into or out of a limited number of cities located in the United States.

 

The Agreement does not prohibit Delta from serving, or entering into agreements with, other airlines to serve routes flown by the Company. Delta may extend or terminate the Agreement if, among other things, the Company merges with or sells its assets to another entity, is acquired by another entity, or if any person acquires more than a specified percentage of its stock.

 

Right of First Refusal—During the term of the Agreement, if the Company receives an offer from a third party to purchase, lease, sublease, encumber, or otherwise acquire any interest in, or to operate for a third party, the Company’s aircraft, option aircraft, slots, gates, or other facilities on its own behalf or for others during the term of the Agreement, Delta is entitled to be notified of the offer and to acquire such property on the same financial terms and conditions. This right of first refusal does not apply to any ordinary course refinancing or sale/leaseback by the Company of any such property.

 

Modified Annual Operating Plan—In the event that the Company’s projected Direct Costs, as factored into the preset block hour rates the Company is entitled to receive from Delta under the Agreement, materially change during a year due to actions by Delta after the Company’s annual operating plan has been established, Delta and the Company will mutually agree on a revised annual operating plan for the remainder of the year to take into account such changes as they relate to the Company’s Direct Costs-based block hour rate.

 

Pro Forma Financial Data (Unaudited)—For the year ended December 31, 2002, if the Company had been compensated under the Agreement, pursuant to the capacity purchase agreement in place during 2003, the Statement of Operations would have reported operating revenues of $710,481,000, operating expenses of $662,491,000, operating income of $47,990,000, other expense of $15,209,000 an income tax provision of $13,404,000, net income of $19,377,000.  Retained earnings as of December 31, 2002 would have been $66,948,000.

 

The pro forma financial data are based on the historical financial statements and do not purport to represent what the Company’s Statement of Operations would have been had the 2003 capacity purchase compensation arrangement been in place for the period indicated or to project its Statement of Operations for any future period or date.

 

See Note 13 for additional information about an amendment to the Agreement that was effective as of January 1, 2005.

 

3.       SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

A.      New Accounting Standards

 

In December 2004, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards, (“SFAS”) No. 123 (Revised 2004), “Share-Based Payment” (“SFAS 123R”).  This standard replaces SFAS 123, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation,” and supersedes Accounting Principles Board (“APB”) Opinion No. 25, “Accounting for Stock Issued to Employees.” (“APB 25”)  It requires that the compensation cost of share-based payment transactions be recognized in financial statements based on the fair value of the equity or liability instruments issued.  This statement is effective for the Company beginning July 1, 2005.  The Company is evaluating the impact of SFAS 123R, including the transition options for adoption of this standard, on the 2005 Financial Statements.

 

11



 

During 2003, the Company adopted certain accounting standards, however, the adoption of these standards did not have a material impact on the Company’s Financial Statements.  The adopted accounting standards are as follows:

 

                  SFAS No. 143, “Accounting for Asset Retirement Obligations;”

                  SFAS No. 149, “Amendment of Statement 133 on Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities;”

                  SFAS No. 150, “Accounting for Certain Financial Instruments with Characteristics of both Liabilities and Equity;”

                  FIN 46, “Consolidation of Variable Interest Entities;”

                  EITF Issue 01-08, “Determining Whether an Arrangement Contains a Lease.”  .”

 

During 2002, the Company adopted the following accounting standards:

 

                  SFAS No. 142, “Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets” (“SFAS 142”) (see the Company’s goodwill policy and related information in this Note);

 

                  SFAS No. 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets” (“SFAS 144”) (see the Company’s Long-Lived Assets policy in this Note);

 

                  SFAS No. 145, “Recission of FASB Statements No. 4, 44 and 63, Amendment of FASB Statement No. 13 and Technical Corrections” (“SFAS 145”).  The adoption of SFAS 145 did not have a material impact on the Company’s Financial Statements;

 

                  SFAS No. 146, “Accounting for Costs Associated with Exit or Disposal Activities” (“SFAS 146”).  The adoption of SFAS 146 will impact the timing of the recognition of liabilities related to future exit or disposal activities;

 

                  SFAS No. 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation — Transition and Disclosure — an Amendment to FASB Statement No. 123” (“SFAS 148”) (see the Company’s stock-based compensation policy in this Note); and

 

                  FIN 45, “Guarantor’s Accounting and Disclosure Requirements for Guarantees, Including Indirect Guarantees of Indebtedness of Others” (“FIN 45”) (see the Company’s purchase commitments and contingencies in Note 9).  The adoption of FIN 45 did not have a material impact on the Company’s Financial Statements.

 

B.            Accounting Policies

 

Use of EstimatesThe Company is required to make estimates and assumptions when preparing its financial statements in conformity with GAAP. These estimates and assumptions affect the amounts reported in the Company’s financial statements and the accompanying notes. Actual results could differ materially from those estimates.

 

Cash and Cash EquivalentsThe Company classifies short-term, highly liquid investments with original maturities of three months or less as cash and cash equivalents. These investments are recorded at cost, which the Company believes approximates fair value.

 

Under the Company’s cash management system, controlled disbursement accounts, which are funded daily, are utilized for payments. Checks issued by the Company, which have not been presented to the bank for payment, are recorded in accounts payable on the Balance Sheets. These amounts totaled approximately $7,400,000 and $6,700,000 as of December 31, 2004 and 2003, respectively.

 

Restricted Cash—The Company has restricted cash, which primarily relates to cash held as collateral to support certain projected insurance obligations. The restricted cash balance as of December 31, 2004 and 2003 was approximately $12,500,000 and $7,500,000, respectively.

 

Long-Lived AssetsProperty and equipment are recorded at cost and are depreciated on a straight-line basis to estimated residual values over their estimated useful lives. Residual values for flight equipment range from 5%-40% of cost. The estimated useful lives for major asset classifications are as follows:

 

Flight equipment

 

15-161/2 years

 

Ground property and equipment

 

3-30 years

 

 

In accordance with SFAS 144, “Accounting for the Impairment or Disposal of Long-Lived Assets,” the Company records impairment losses on long-lived assets used in operations when events and circumstances indicate the assets may be impaired, and the undiscounted cash flows estimated to be generated by those assets are less than their carrying amounts. For long-lived assets held for sale, the Company records impairment losses when the carrying amount is greater than the fair value less the cost to sell.  The Company discontinues depreciation of long-lived assets once they are classified as held for sale.

 

To determine impairments for aircraft used in operations, the Company group’s assets at the fleet type level (the lowest level for which there are identifiable cash flows) and then estimates future cash flows based on projections of revenue, fuel costs, labor costs and other relevant factors in the markets in which these aircraft operate.  If an impairment occurs, the amount of the impairment loss recognized is the amount by which the carrying amount of the aircraft exceeds the estimated fair value.  Aircraft fair values are estimated by management using published sources, appraisals and bids received from third parties, as available.

 

12



 

Non-operating property is presented within other noncurrent assets on the accompanying December 31, 2004 and 2003 Balance Sheets and includes 20 and 30 EMB-120 turboprop aircraft and related parts carried at approximately $ 17,000,000 and $19,000,000, respectively. Ten and seven EMB-120 turboprop aircraft were sold in 2004 and 2003, respectively.  No EMB-120 aircraft were sold in 2002.

 

Goodwill—Prior to the Company’s adoption of SFAS No. 142 on January 1, 2002, the goodwill related to Delta’s acquisition in 1999 of the Company was amortized over 40 years.  Upon adoption of SFAS No. 142, the Company discontinued the amortization of goodwill.  Instead, in accordance with SFAS No. 142, the Company now applies a fair value-based impairment test to the carrying value of goodwill on an annual basis and on an interim basis if certain events or circumstances indicate that an impairment loss may have been incurred.  The annual impairment test date for the Company’s goodwill is December 31.

 

In evaluating goodwill for impairment, the Company first compares its fair value to its carrying value. The Company estimates its fair value primarily by considering its projected future cash flows.  If fair value exceeds carrying value, no further testing is required.  If, however, carrying value exceeds fair value, the Company then determines the amount of the impairment charge, if any.  The Company recognizes an impairment charge if the carrying value of goodwill exceeds its implied fair value.

As of December 31, 2003, the required annual impairment test of the Company’s goodwill was performed, which indicated no impairment.

 

See Note 4 for additional information regarding goodwill impairment charges recorded during 2004.

 

Other Assets—Financing costs associated with long-term debt and lease financings are deferred and amortized over the term of the specific indebtedness or lease. Financing costs are included in other noncurrent assets on the Company’s Balance Sheets. EMB-120 turboprop aircraft held-for-sale are also included in other noncurrent assets (See Long-Lived Assets in this Note).

 

Interest CapitalizedInterest costs on advance payments to acquire new aircraft and on construction of ground facilities are capitalized as an additional cost of the related assets. Interest is capitalized at the weighted average interest rate of long-term debt or, if applicable, the interest rate related to specific borrowings. Interest capitalization ends when the property or equipment is ready for service or its intended use. Capitalized interest totaled approximately $1,300,000, $1,000,000, and $1,300,000 for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003, and 2002, respectively.

 

Revenue RecognitionRevenue is recognized when the transportation is provided in accordance with rates projected to be in effect under the Delta Connection Agreement described in Note 2.

 

Manufacturers’ CreditsThe Company periodically receives credits in connection with the acquisition of aircraft and engines. These credits are deferred until the aircraft and engines are delivered then applied on a pro rata basis as a reduction to the cost of the related equipment.

 

Operating Subsidies—The Company periodically receives cash payments to subsidize the direct cost of operating certain aircraft. These payments are reflected as a reduction of other operating expense in the Company’s Statements of Operations.

 

Maintenance Costs—The Company records maintenance costs in operating expense as they are incurred.

 

Inventories—Inventories of expendable parts related to flight equipment are carried at moving average cost and charged to operations as consumed. An allowance for obsolescence for the cost of these parts is provided over the remaining useful life of the related fleet.

 

Advertising Costs—The Company expenses certain advertising costs as other selling expense in the year incurred. Advertising expense was approximately $485,000, $274,000 and $559,000 for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003, and 2002, respectively.

 

Income TaxesIn accordance with SFAS No. 109, “Accounting for Income Taxes”, the Company accounts for deferred income taxes under the liability method.  Under this method, the Company recognizes deferred tax assets and liabilities based on the tax effects of temporary differences between the financial statement and tax bases of assets and liabilities, as measured by current enacted tax rates.  A valuation allowance is recorded to reduce deferred tax assets when necessary.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities are recorded net as current and noncurrent deferred income taxes on the Company’s Balance Sheets (See Note 8).

 

Interest SubsidiesThe Company received the benefit of interest rate subsidies through the Bombardier Capital Inc. Financing Program for certain CRJ-200 and CRJ-700 aircraft. The Company utilized these subsidies to substantially fix its interest expense for debt related to those aircraft. These subsidies were approximately $800,000, $900,000, and $1,000,000 in 2004, 2003, and 2002, respectively, and are recorded as a reduction in interest expense on the accompanying Statements of Operations.

 

In 2002, the Company received the benefit of interest rate subsidies through the Brazilian Export Financing Program for certain Embraer Brasilia aircraft.  The Company utilized these subsidies to substantially fix its interest expense for debt related to those aircraft.  These subsidies were approximately $700,000 in 2002, and are recorded as a reduction in interest expense on the accompanying Statement of Operations.  All debt related to Embraer Brasilia aircraft was repaid in 2002.

 

Marketable Securities—Marketable securities related to the Company’s executive deferred compensation plan are reported in the Balance Sheets at fair value, based on quoted market prices as of December 31, 2004 and 2003. The marketable securities are classified as available-for-sale and any unrealized gains (losses) are recorded as other comprehensive income (loss) in shareowner’s equity in accordance with SFAS No. 115, “Accounting for Certain Investments in Debt and Equity Securities.” (See Comprehensive Income (Loss) below)

 

13



 

Comprehensive Income (Loss)Comprehensive income (loss) consists of reported net income and unrealized gains and losses, net of tax, on marketable equity securities classified as available-for-sale related to the Company’s executive deferred compensation plan (see Note 10 for further discussion). The Company reports total comprehensive income (loss) in its Statements of Shareowner’s Equity. The following table presents accumulated other comprehensive income (loss) as of December 31, 2004 and 2003 and the activity for the years then ended:

 

(In thousands)

 

 

 

Balance at December 31, 2001

 

$

(76

)

Unrealized loss

 

(78

)

Tax effect

 

30

 

Net of tax

 

(48

)

Balance at December 31, 2002

 

(124

)

Unrealized gain

 

185

 

Tax effect

 

(73

)

Net of tax

 

112

 

Balance at December 31, 2003

 

(12

)

Unrealized gain

 

57

 

Tax effect

 

(21

)

Net of tax

 

36

 

Balance at December 31, 2004

 

$

24

 

 

Deferred Gains on Sale and Leaseback TransactionsThe Company amortizes deferred gains on the sale and leaseback of property and equipment under operating leases over the lives of these leases. The amortization of these gains is recorded as a reduction in rent expense. Such deferred gains are recorded in accrued liabilities and deferred credits and deferred gains on sale and leaseback transactions in the accompanying Balance Sheets based on the timing of the recognition of such gains.

 

Stock-Based Compensation—The Company participates in the Delta 2000 Performance Compensation Plan (“Plan”), under which certain of the Company’s employees are awarded stock options to purchase Delta’s common stock. The Company accounts for the stock-based compensation under the intrinsic value method in accordance with APB 25 and related interpretations.  No stock option compensation expense is recognized in the Company’s Statements of Operations because all stock options granted had an exercise price equal to the fair value of the underlying common stock on the grant date.

 

Stock options awarded under the Plan (1) have an exercise price equal to the fair market value of Delta’s common stock on the grant date, (2) become exercisable two or four years after the grant date, and (3) expire up to ten years after the grant date. The estimated fair values of stock options granted during the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003, and 2002 were derived using the Black-Scholes option-pricing model. The following table includes the assumptions used in estimating fair values and the resulting weighted average fair value of a stock option granted in the periods presented:

 

 

 

Stock Options Granted

 

Assumptions

 

2004

 

2003

 

2002

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Risk-free interest rate

 

3.5

%

2.8

%

4.6

%

Average expected life of stock options (in years)

 

5.0

 

4.0

 

7.3

 

Expected volatility of common stock

 

62.7

%

58.3

%

37.7

%

Expected annual dividends on common stock

 

$

 

$

 

$

0.10

 

Weighted-average fair value of a stock option granted

 

$

4

 

$

5

 

$

9

 

 

14



 

The following table shows what the Company’s net income would have been for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003, and 2002 had the Company accounted for the awards granted under the Plan using the fair value method of accounting in SFAS 123, as amended by SFAS 148, “Accounting for Stock-Based Compensation – Transition and Disclosure – an Amendment to FASB Statement No. 123,” and the assumptions in the table above (in thousands):

 

 

 

For the Years Ended

 

 

 

December 31,

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

2002

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Net income:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

As reported

 

$

(468,582

)

$

57,615

 

$

20,033

 

Deduct: total stock option compensation expense determined under the fair value based method, net of tax

 

(1,156

)

(894

)

(798

)

As adjusted for the fair value method under SFAS No. 123

 

$

(469,738

)

$

56,721

 

$

19,235

 

 

On May 28, 2003, Delta commenced, with shareowner approval, a stock option exchange program (“Exchange Program”) under which eligible employees were offered the opportunity to exchange their outstanding stock options with an exercise price of $25 per share or more for a designated fewer number of replacement options with an exercise price equal to the fair market value of the common stock on the grant date of the replacement options. In accordance with the terms of the Exchange Program, Delta canceled approximately 369,000 outstanding stock options on June 25, 2003 that relate to certain employees of the Company and issued, in exchange for the canceled options, approximately 190,000 replacement options on December 26, 2003. The exercise price of the replacement options is $11.60, the closing price of Delta’s common stock on the grant date.

 

The following table summarizes all stock option activity for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003, and 2002:

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

2002

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted-

 

 

 

Weighted-

 

 

 

Weighted-

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

 

 

Average

 

 

 

Average

 

 

 

 

 

Exercise

 

 

 

Exercise

 

 

 

Exercise

 

 

 

Shares

 

Price

 

Shares

 

Price

 

Shares

 

Price

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outstanding at the beginning of the year

 

357,752

 

$

12

 

367,500

 

$

33

 

159,000

 

$

51

 

Employee transfers to ASA from parent company during 2003

 

216,298

 

12

 

168,900

 

40

 

 

 

Granted

 

215,400

 

7

 

189,952

 

12

 

224,500

 

21

 

Forfeited

 

(8,700

)

22

 

(368,600

)

45

 

(16,000

)

47

 

Outstanding at the end of the year

 

780,750

 

11

 

357,752

 

12

 

367,500

 

33

 

Exercisable at the end of the year

 

360,999

 

$

14

 

94,650

 

$

15

 

66,675

 

$

51

 

 

The following table summarizes information about stock options outstanding and exercisable as of December 31, 2004:

 

 

 

Stock Options Outstanding

 

Stock Options Exercisable

 

 

 

 

 

Weighted

 

Weighted

 

 

 

Weighted

 

 

 

 

 

Average

 

Average

 

 

 

Average

 

 

 

Number

 

Remaining

 

Exercise

 

Number

 

Exercise

 

Stock Options

 

Outstanding

 

Life (years)

 

Price

 

Outstanding

 

Price

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$4 - $20

 

748,550

 

9

 

$

9

 

329,049

 

$

11

 

$21 - $35

 

21,100

 

7

 

32

 

21,100

 

32

 

$36 - $50

 

3,400

 

5

 

44

 

3,150

 

44

 

$51 - $70

 

7,700

 

4

 

56

 

7,700

 

56

 

 

C.  Additional Accounting Policies for the Year Ended December 31, 2002

 

As a result of the amendment and restatement of the Agreement effective January 1, 2003, the following accounting policies are applicable to the December 31, 2002 Financial Statements only.

 

15



 

Passenger Revenue RecognitionThe Company issues Delta ticket stock for passenger sales.  Passenger revenues are recognized in the Company’s Statement of Operations at the time transportation is provided by the Company.  Revenues are derived primarily from local fares and from through fares.  Local fares are single fare amounts for point-to-point travel. Through fares are fares for transportation provided between two or more points by one or more carriers.  Revenues derived from through fares are distributed among the participating air carriers using agreed upon proration formulas.  Revenues related to both local and through fares received from Delta for flights operated by the Company are calculated using contractual formulas.

 

In 2002, the Company’s revenues were derived primarily through the transportation of passengers and cargo in scheduled airline service as a Delta Connection Carrier under the Agreement with Delta.  Approximately 71% of ASA’s passengers for the year ended December 31, 2002 connected with Delta.

 

Cargo Revenue RecognitionCargo revenues are recognized in the Company’s Statement of Operations when the related transportation is provided.

 

Passenger CommissionsPassenger commissions are allocated to the Company from Delta based on the Company’s pro-rata share of passenger revenue and are recognized in operating expenses when the related transportation is provided and the associated revenue is recognized.

 

4.       GOODWILL

 

The Company performed their annual goodwill impairment test as of December 31, 2004. As a result of this test, the Company recorded a charge totaling approximately $499,000,000 in impairment of goodwill on the 2004 Statement of Operations.

 

During the December 2004 quarter, the Company re-evaluated its estimated fair value in light of the implementation of initiatives as a result of Delta’s strategic reassessment and the completion of its new long-range cash flow plans. These initiatives and plans reflect, among other things, (1) the strategic role of the Company in Delta’s business; and (2) an expectation of the continuation of historically high fuel prices. These factors had a substantial negative impact on the impairment test results.  The Company’s previous impairment tests of goodwill resulted in no impairment.

 

5.                    ASSET WRITEDOWNS

 

During 2002, the Company decided to accelerate the retirement of 37 owned EMB-120 aircraft to achieve costs savings and operating efficiencies. The accelerated retirement of these aircraft as well as a reduction in their estimated future cash flows and fair values resulted in an impairment charge of approximately $27,000,000.  Additionally, the Company recorded a charge of approximately $4,000,000 to writedown the related spare parts inventory to their net realizable value. The Company removed all EMB-120 aircraft from service in 2003.

 

16



 

6.       DEBT

 

The following table summarizes the Company’s debt as of December 31, 2004 and 2003 (in thousands):

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

Fixed

 

 

 

 

 

5.78% to 6.23% notes due in semiannual installments between 2006 and 2019

 

93,327

 

97,734

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Variable

 

 

 

 

 

3.24% to 4.12% notes due in semiannual installments between 2006 and 2019

 

201,912

 

208,703

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.71% notes due in semiannual installments between 2005 and 2016

 

188,419

 

199,528

 

2.24% to 4.12% notes due in semiannual installments between 2005 and 2021

 

94,012

 

101,289

 

5.81% to 5.90% promissory notes due 2006

 

181,711

 

96,284

 

1.74% notes due in semiannual installments between 2005 and 2012

 

87,317

 

92,536

 

3.79% notes due in semiannual installments between 2005 and 2017

 

51,480

 

54,601

 

3.39% notes due in semiannual installments between 2006 and 2017

 

50,106

 

53,105

 

3.68% to 4.52% notes due in semiannual installments between 2005 and 2017

 

46,411

 

49,058

 

4.34% notes due in semiannual installments between 2005 and 2012

 

9,702

 

10,282

 

4.35% notes due in monthly installments between 2005 and 2020

 

169,172

 

 

3.23% line of credit from Parent due January 2006

 

155,000

 

65,000

 

Total debt

 

1,328,569

 

1,028,120

 

Less current maturities

 

43,072

 

53,456

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Total long-term debt

 

$

1,285,497

 

$

974,664

 

 

The interest rates for the variable rate debt above are presented using the interest rates in effect as of December 31, 2004, and are generally based on LIBOR plus a margin.

 

Since January 2002, the Company has entered into a series of aircraft-secured financing facilities with the manufacturer for certain future deliveries of regional jet aircraft. As of December 31, 2004 and 2003, the total borrowings outstanding under these facilities were approximately $182,000,000 and $96,000,000, respectively. Borrowings under each of these facilities (1) are due 18 months after the date of borrowing (subject to earlier repayment if certain longer-term financing is obtained for these aircraft) and (2) bear interest at LIBOR plus a margin. The Company receives interest subsidies on the total borrowings under this facility as described in Note 3. The effective variable rate was 3.50%, 2.90%, and 2.57% as of December 31, 2004, 2003, and 2002, respectively.

 

In 2002, the Company also executed a line-of-credit agreement with an affiliate that allows the Company to borrow up to approximately $500,000,000.  During 2004, the Company amended the maximum borrowing amount to $250,000,000.  The Company borrowed approximately $90,000,000 during 2004.  As of December 31, 2004 and 2003, approximately $155,000,000 and $65,000,000, respectively, was outstanding under this agreement, which was scheduled to mature on January 28, 2004. On January 28, 2004, the line of credit was extended to mature on January 27, 2006. As of December 31, 2004, borrowings under this line of credit were presented as long-term debt – affiliate on the Company’s Balance Sheet.

 

17



 

The carrying value of the Company’s variable rate debt approximates fair value. The fair value of the Company’s fixed rate debt is estimated based on the quoted market price for similar issues. The estimated fair value as of December 31, 2004 and 2003 is $93,300,000 and $92,000,000, respectively. As of December 31, 2004, all debt is secured by first mortgage liens on a total of 80 CRJ-200 and CRJ-700 aircraft, which had an aggregate net book value of approximately $1,384,800,000.

 

Future MaturitiesMaturities of long-term debt obligations including current maturities, are as follows (in thousands):

 

Years ending December 31,

 

Principal Amount

 

2005

 

$

43,072

 

2006

 

375,154

 

2007

 

64,746

 

2008

 

67,488

 

2009

 

70,419

 

After 2009

 

707,690

 

Total

 

$

1,328,569

 

 

Debt CovenantsThe Company has no debt covenants as of December 31, 2004 and 2003.

 

As is customary in the airline industry, the Company’s aircraft lease and financing agreements require that the Company maintain certain levels of insurance coverage, including war-risk insurance. The Company was in compliance with these requirements as of December 31, 2004 and 2003. See Note 9 for additional information on war-risk insurance currently provided by the U.S. Government.

 

7.       LEASE OBLIGATIONS

 

The Company leases aircraft, airport terminal and maintenance facilities, and other property and equipment. Rent expense for these lease obligations is recorded on a straight-line basis over the life of the lease. Rent expense for operating leases totaled approximately $93,300,000, $94,800,000, and $97,100,000 for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003, and 2002, respectively. As of December 31, 2004, the Company operated 56 aircraft under operating leases with remaining terms ranging from approximately nine years to fifteen years, while as of December 31, 2003, the company operated 58 aircraft under operating leases with remaining terms ranging from 10.25 years to 16.25 years.

 

The following table summarizes, as of December 31, 2004, the minimum future lease payments under all noncancelable operating leases with initial terms in excess of one year (in thousands):

 

Years ending December 31,

 

 

 

2005

 

$

73,207

 

2006

 

69,812

 

2007

 

60,206

 

2008

 

53,334

 

2009

 

51,348

 

After 2009

 

278,680

 

Total

 

$

586,587

 

 

8. INCOME TAXES

 

The following is a summary of the provision for income taxes for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003, and 2002 (in thousands):

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

2002

 

Current taxes

 

$

 

$

 

$

(8,937

)

Deferred taxes

 

20,119

 

38,147

 

22,794

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Income tax expense

 

$

20,119

 

$

38,147

 

$

13,857

 

 

18



 

Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effect of temporary differences between the carrying amounts of assets and liabilities for financial reporting purposes and income tax purposes.  The Company’s operations are included in the consolidated federal income tax return of Delta.  State and federal income taxes are allocated to the Company by Delta and are calculated on a separate return basis.  As of December 31, 2004, the Company had pretax net operating losses of approximately $359 million related to U.S. federal and state tax jurisdictions, which expire at various times beginning in 2007 and ending in 2024. Significant components of the Company’s deferred tax assets and liabilities as of December 31, 2004 and 2003 are as follows (in thousands):

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

Deferred tax assets:

 

 

 

 

 

Net operating loss carryforwards

 

136,450

 

88,427

 

Other

 

17,185

 

19,190

 

Total deferred tax assets

 

153,635

 

107,617

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Deferred tax liabilities:

 

 

 

 

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

268,163

 

201,730

 

Other

 

2,492

 

2,066

 

Total deferred tax liabilities

 

270,655

 

203,796

 

Net deferred tax liabilities

 

$

(117,020

)

$

(96,179

)

 

The following table shows the current and noncurrent deferred tax assets (liabilities) recorded on the Company’s Balance Sheets as of December 31, 2004 and 2003 (in thousands):

 

Current deferred tax assets, net

 

$

12,044

 

$

13,698

 

Noncurrent deferred tax liabilities, net

 

(129,064

)

(109,877

)

Total deferred tax liabilities

 

$

(117,020

)

$

(96,179

)

 

Management believes it is more likely than not that these deferred tax assets are realizable.  As a result, the Company has not recorded a valuation allowance for deferred tax assets.

 

The following table presents the principal reasons for the differences between the effective income tax rate and the U.S. federal statutory rate for the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003, and 2002:

 

 

 

2004

 

2003

 

2002

 

U.S. federal statutory income tax rate

 

(35.0

)%

35.0

%

35.0

%

State income taxes, net of federal income tax effect

 

0.4

 

3.1

 

3.2

 

Meals and entertainment

 

0.2

 

1.2

 

2.8

 

Goodwill impairment

 

38.9

 

 

 

Other

 

 

0.5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Effective income tax rate

 

4.5

%

39.8

%

41.0

%

 

9.       PURCHASE COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENCIES

 

Purchase Commitments—In September 1998 and June 2000, the Company entered into long-term acquisition agreements with Bombardier Aerospace, Inc. to purchase a total of 54 CRJ aircraft in a mix of 40-, 50-, and 70-seat configurations. Deliveries under these agreements commenced in December 2000 and continued through 2004. These agreements also included options for the purchase of an additional 210 CRJ aircraft, which would be available for delivery through 2010. These options are exercised at the sole discretion of the Company and expire if they remain unexercised by certain dates.

 

On February 27, 2004, the Company entered into an agreement to purchase 32 CRJ-200 aircraft to be delivered in 2005. The value of this firm order is approximately $520,000,000.  In conjunction with this agreement, the Company entered into a facility with a third party to finance, on a secured basis at the time of acquisition, the future deliveries of these regional jet aircraft. Borrowings under this facility (1) will be due in installments for 15 years after the date of borrowing and (2) bear interest at LIBOR plus a margin. The Company has no commitments related to the remaining 117 available options as of December 31, 2004.

 

19



 

Labor—Approximately 43% of the Company’s employees (primarily pilots, flight attendants, and flight dispatchers) are represented by unions.

 

The Company’s approximately 1,515 pilots are represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, International, and their collective bargaining agreement became amendable in September 2002. Negotiations are ongoing, and currently, the Company is operating under the existing contract.

 

The Company’s approximately 885 flight attendants are represented by the Association for Flight Attendants, and their collective bargaining agreement became amendable in September 2003. Negotiations are ongoing, and currently, the Company is operating under the existing contract.

 

In addition, because the Company is a Delta Connection Carrier (See Note 1), a strike or other job action by Delta’s employees could have a material adverse impact on the Company’s financial condition and operations.

 

Legal—The Company is involved in legal proceedings relating to employment practices, environmental issues and other matters concerning the Company’s business.  The Company cannot reasonably estimate the potential loss for certain legal proceedings because, for example, the litigation is in its early stages or the plaintiff does not specify damages being sought. Although the ultimate outcome of these legal proceedings cannot be predicted with certainty, the Company believes that the resolution of these actions will not have a material adverse effect on the financial statements.

 

War-Risk Insurance—As a result of the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, aviation insurers (1) significantly reduced the maximum amount of insurance coverage available to commercial air carriers for liability to persons (other than employees or passengers) for claims resulting from acts of terrorism, war or similar events and (2) significantly increased the premiums for such coverage and for aviation insurance in general. Since September 24, 2001, the U.S. government has been providing U.S. airlines with war-risk insurance to cover losses, including those resulting from terrorism, to passengers, third parties (ground damage) and the aircraft hull. The coverage currently extends through August 31, 2005 (with a possible extension to December 31, 2005 at the discretion of the Secretary of Transportation). The U.S. government is considering legislative options to extend some or all of the war-risk insurance provided to U.S. airlines beyond December 31, 2005; however, there can be no assurance that such an extension will occur.  The withdrawal of government support of airline war-risk insurance would require us to obtain war-risk insurance coverage commercially, if available. Such commercial insurance could have substantially less desirable coverage than currently provided by the U.S. government, may not be adequate to protect our risk of loss from future acts of terrorism, may result in a material increase to our operating expenses and may not be obtainable at all, resulting in an interruption to our operations.

 

General Indemnifications—The Company is the lessee under real estate leases. It is common in these commercial lease transactions for the Company, as the lessee, to agree to indemnify the lessor and other related third parties for tort, environmental, and other liabilities that arise out of or relate to the Company’s use or occupancy of these leased premises. Typically, this type of indemnity would make the Company responsible to indemnified parties for liabilities arising out of the conduct of, among others, contractors, licensees, and invitees at or in connection with the use or occupancy of the leased premises. Often, this indemnity extends to related liabilities arising from the negligence of the indemnified parties but usually excludes any liabilities caused by their gross negligence or willful misconduct.

 

The Company’s aircraft and other equipment lease and financing agreements typically contain provisions requiring the Company, as the lessee or obligor, to indemnify the other parties to those agreements, including certain related parties, against virtually any liabilities that might arise from the condition, use, or operation of the aircraft or such other equipment.

 

The Company believes that its insurance coverage would cover most of the Company’s exposure to such liabilities and related indemnities associated with the types of lease and financing agreements described above, including real estate leases.

 

Certain of the Company’s aircraft and other financing transactions also often include provisions which require the Company to make payments to preserve an expected economic return to the lenders if that economic return is diminished due to certain changes in law or regulations. In certain of these financing transactions, the Company also bears the risk of certain changes in tax laws that would subject payments to non-U.S. lenders to withholding taxes.

 

The Company cannot reasonably estimate the potential future payments under the indemnities and related provisions described above because the Company cannot predict when and under what circumstances these provisions may be triggered.

 

10.     EMPLOYEE BENEFIT PLANS

 

401(k) Plan—All employees of the Company who have completed 90 days of employment are generally eligible to participate in the Company’s investment savings plan. For each dollar of salary deduction elected by an employee (up to 6% of an employee’s earnings), the Company has made a matching contribution of $0.20 to $0.50 (depending on the number of years of participation for each participant). After seven years of service by an employee, the Company will make a matching contribution of $0.75 for each dollar of salary reduction elected by an employee.

 

Deferred Compensation Plan—The Company has an executive deferred compensation plan for a select group of highly compensated and management employees, as designated by the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company contributes from 10% to 15% of each participant’s base salary to the plan. The Company invests these contributions in employee-directed marketable equity securities which are classified as available-for-sale securities and recorded at fair market value on the Balance Sheets in other noncurrent assets.  These investments totaled approximately $1,599,000 and $1,431,000 at December 31, 2004 and 2003, respectively, and are available to the Company’s creditors in liquidation. See Note 3 for additional information related to these securities.

 

20



 

The Company recorded approximately $4,400,000, $3,800,000, and $2,400,000 in expenses during 2004, 2003, and 2002, respectively, related to the plans discussed in the preceding two paragraphs. These expenses are included in salaries and related costs in the Statements of Operations.

 

11.     GOVERNMENT COMPENSATION AND REIMBURSEMENTS

 

Emergency Wartime Supplemental Appropriations Act (“Appropriations Act”)—On April 16, 2003, President Bush signed into law the Appropriations Act, which provides for, among other things:

 

            Payments for Certain Security Fees. Payments totaling $2.3 billion from the U.S. Government to U.S. air carriers for the reimbursement of certain passenger and air carrier security fees.

 

            Compensation for Strengthening Flight Deck Doors. Payments totaling $100 million from the U.S. Government to compensate air carriers for the direct costs associated with the strengthening of flight deck doors and locks on aircraft.

 

            Suspension of Passenger and Air Carrier Security Fees. The suspension of the TSA’s collection of passenger and air carrier security fees during the period beginning June 1, 2003 and ending September 30, 2003.

 

In 2003, the Company received payments totaling approximately (1) $22,000,000 under the Appropriations Act during the June 2003 quarter, which was recorded as a reduction to operating expenses, as reimbursement for passenger and air carrier security fees, and (2) approximately $656,000 related to the strengthening of flight deck doors during the September 2003 quarter, which was recorded as a reduction to previously capitalized costs. Of the approximately $22,000,000 received, $19,000,000 was allocated to the Company by Delta from Delta’s TSA reimbursement and approximately $3,000,000 was received directly from the TSA. The Company is not subject to the executive compensation limits required under the Appropriations Act.

 

Stabilization Act —On September 22, 2001, the Air Transportation Safety and System Stabilization Act (“Stabilization Act”) became effective.  The Stabilization Act was intended to preserve the viability of the U.S. air transportation system following the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001 by, among other things,  (1) providing for payments from the U.S. Government totaling $5 billion to compensate U.S. air carriers for losses incurred from September 11, 2001 through December 31, 2001 as a result of the September 11 terrorist attacks and (2) permitting the Secretary of Transportation to sell insurance to U.S. air carriers.

 

The Company’s allocated portion of compensation under the Stabilization Act was approximately $17,300,000.  Due to uncertainties regarding the U.S. government’s calculation of compensation, the Company recognized approximately $16,900,000 of this amount in the Company’s 2001 Statement of Operations.  The Company recognized the remaining $400,000 of compensation in the Company’s 2002 Statement of Operations.  The Company received approximately $2,900,000 in cash for the year ended December 31, 2002 under the Stabilization Act.

 

Subsequent to September 11, 2001, aviation insurers significantly reduced the maximum amount of insurance coverage available to commercial air carriers for liability to persons (other than employees or passengers) for claims resulting from acts of terrorism, was or similar events.  At the same time, aviation insurers significantly increased the premium for such coverage and for aviation insurance in general.  Under the Stabilization Act, the U.S. government is providing U.S. airlines with war-risk insurance to cover losses to passengers, third parties (ground damage) and the aircraft hull.  This coverage extends through August 2004, with a possible extension to December 31, 2004 at the discretion of the Secretary of Transportation, but the coverage may not be extended beyond that time.  The Company expects that if the U.S. government fails to renew the war-risk insurance that it provides, the Company will be required to replace such coverage commercially or consider other alternatives.  There can be no assurance that such commercially provided war-risk insurance coverage will be adequate to protect our risk of loss from future acts of terrorism or will be provided on terms that will not have a material adverse impact on the Company’s Financial Statements.

 

12.     RELATED PARTY TRANSACTIONS

 

The Company derives 100% of its passenger revenues from Delta under the Delta Connection Agreement discussed in Note 2.

 

In 2004 and 2003, the Company reimbursed Delta or its affiliates for costs incurred on the Company’s behalf. Delta or its affiliates provided the Company with aircraft handling services and passenger handling services at certain airports. The Company expensed approximately $27,500,000 and $27,000,000, respectively, for these services. These amounts are recorded in contracted services on the accompanying Statements of Operations.

 

In 2002, in return for set fees and reimbursements to Delta for costs incurred by Delta on the Company’s behalf, Delta provided the Company with reservations services, aircraft handling services, and passenger handling services at certain airports and other sales and marketing services.  The Company expensed approximately $57,000,000 for these services during 2002.  These amounts are included primarily in contracted services and other selling expenses in the Statement of Operations.

 

The Company has an arrangement with Delta whereby Delta provides certain administrative and financial services. In addition, certain Delta employees have been assigned to key administrative positions at the Company. The Company expensed approximately $2,000,000 for these services during both 2004 and 2003, and $1,800,000 for 2002. These amounts are recorded in contracted services on the accompanying Statements of Operations.

 

21



 

In 2004, 2003, and 2002, the Company purchased a portion of its aircraft fuel from an affiliate. Fuel purchases from this affiliate were approximately $59,800,000, $44,200,000, and $31,200,000 in 2004, 2003, and 2002, respectively.

 

As of December 31, 2004 and 2003, approximately $19,600,000 and $26,300,000, respectively, are payable to Delta and Delta affiliates related to the agreements and services described above. These amounts are recorded as accounts payable—affiliate on the accompanying Balance Sheets.

 

As of December 31, 2004 and 2003, approximately $35,900,000 and $26,500,000, respectively, are receivable from different affiliates of the Company. These amounts are recorded as accounts receivable—affiliate on the accompanying Balance Sheets.

 

During the years ended December 31, 2004, 2003 and 2002, approximately $18,000,000, $17,600,000, and $4,600,000 respectively, were received from Delta or its affiliates for airport customer service functions performed by the Company on the affiliate’s behalf. These payments are reflected as a reduction of other operating expense in the Company’s Statements of Operations.

 

Effective September 10, 2004, the Company entered into a credit agreement to extend credit to Delta for an amount not to exceed $250,000,000.  As of December 31, 2004, the receivable balance with Delta was approximately $110,000,000.  This amount was recorded as note receivable—affiliate on the accompanying Balance Sheets.  The amount of interest earned for the year ended December 31, 2004 was approximately $1,000,000.  The note will mature on September 9, 2005 and earns interest at a rate of 3.62%.

 

Maintenance Agreement—Effective January 1, 2004, the Company and Delta entered into a new regional jet engine maintenance agreement. Under the agreement, Delta will perform certain engine maintenance services for the Company. Maintenance costs will continue to be included in direct costs under the new Delta Connection Agreement and, therefore, will be subject to reimbursement.  The Company expensed approximately $8,600,000 during 2004 under this agreement.

 

Cash Management—During 2003, the Company maintained an investment management agreement with Delta whereby Delta invested excess cash on the Company’s behalf and allocated interest income to the Company based on cash invested. The Company, however, maintained ownership of the cash and cash equivalents at all times. Approximately $219,000,000 of the Company’s cash and cash equivalents were invested under this agreement as of December 31, 2003.  During 2004, The Company and Delta terminated the investment management agreement.  The Company’s cash and cash equivalents are currently managed under an arrangement whereby Delta provides certain financial services to the Company.  Approximately $72,249,000 of the Company’s cash and cash equivalents were invested under this arrangement as of December 31, 2004.  These amounts are included in cash and cash equivalents on the accompanying Balance Sheet.

Stock-Based Compensation—The Company participates in certain of Delta’s stock-based compensation plans as discussed in Note 3.

 

13.     SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

 

Amendment to Capacity Purchase Arrangement — Effective January 1, 2005, the Company began being compensated under an amended capacity purchase arrangement.  The terms of this arrangement are being finalized with Delta, and the Company and Delta intend to reach a final agreement during 2005.  In the interim, Delta and the Company have established 2005 compensation rates per block hour flown under which the Company is being compensated.  It is anticipated by the Company and by Delta that the compensation rates that will be included in the final terms of the capacity purchase agreement will not be materially different from the rates presently in use under the interim arrangement.  The Company is still determining the net impact of this new arrangement on its Financial Statements.

 

Maintenance Agreement—Effective March 1, 2005, the Company and Delta amended the regional jet engine maintenance agreement entered into in 2004.  Under the terms of the amended agreement, Delta will perform certain engine maintenance services for the Company but will only charge the Company for materials and labor plus a specified mark-up.  Maintenance costs will continue to be included in Direct Costs under the amended Delta Connection Agreement and, therefore, subject to reimbursement.

 

* * * * * *

 

22


EX-99.4 5 a05-20173_1ex99d4.htm UNAUDITED PRO FORMA

Exhibit 99.4

 

SkyWest, Inc.

Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Operations

(Unaudited)

For the year ended December 31, 2004

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

 

 

 

Historical

 

Pro Forma

 

Pro Forma

 

 

 

SkyWest, Inc.

 

ASA

 

Adjustments

 

Combined

 

OPERATING REVENUES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Passenger

 

$

1,139,580

 

$

947,608

 

$

(12,177

)(A)

$

2,075,011

 

Ground handling and other

 

16,464

 

11

 

 

16,475

 

Total operating revenues

 

1,156,044

 

947,619

 

(12,177

)

2,091,486

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATING EXPENSES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Flying operations

 

577,492

 

 

 

436,982

(B)

1,014,474

 

Customer service

 

180,578

 

 

 

162,677

(C)

343,255

 

Maintenance

 

113,537

 

 

 

134,275

(C)

247,812

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

76,817

 

71,707

 

742

(D)

149,266

 

Promotion and sales

 

4,608

 

600

 

379

(C)

5,587

 

General and administrative

 

58,236

 

 

 

35,515

(C)

93,751

 

Salaries & related costs

 

 

 

292,258

 

(292,258

)(E)

 

Aircraft fuel

 

 

 

197,541

 

(197,541

)(C)

 

Aircraft maintenance materials and outside repairs

 

 

 

87,394

 

(87,394

)(C)

 

Aircraft rent

 

 

 

68,670

 

(68,670

)(C)

 

Contracted services

 

 

 

65,973

 

(65,973

)(C)

 

Landing fees and other rents

 

 

 

44,623

 

(44,623

)(C)

 

Impairment of goodwill

 

 

 

498,736

 

 

 

498,736

 

Other

 

 

 

33,594

 

(33,594

)(C)

 

Total operating expenses

 

1,011,268

 

1,361,096

 

(19,483

)

2,352,881

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATING INCOME (LOSS)

 

144,776

 

(413,477

)

7,306

 

(261,395

)

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income

 

10,050

 

3,092

 

(7,450

)(F)

5,692

 

Interest expense

 

(18,239

)

(38,218

)

6,900

(G)

(49,557

)

Other

 

 

 

140

 

 

 

140

 

Total other income (expense), net

 

(8,189

)

(34,986

)

(550

)

(43,725

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INCOME (LOSS) BEFORE INCOME TAXES

 

136,587

 

(448,463

)

6,756

 

(305,120

)

PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES

 

54,635

 

20,119

 

2,693

(H)

77,447

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NET INCOME (LOSS)

 

$

81,952

 

$

(468,582

)

$

4,063

 

$

(382,567

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BASIC EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE

 

$

1.42

 

 

 

 

 

$

(6.61

)

DILUTED EARNINGS (LOSS) PER SHARE

 

$

1.40

 

 

 

 

 

$

(6.61

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

WEIGHTED AVERAGE OF COMMON SHARES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

57,858

 

 

 

 

 

57,858

 

Diluted

 

58,350

 

 

 

 

 

58,350

 

 

1



 

SkyWest, Inc.

Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statement of Operations

(Unaudited)

For the nine months ended September 30, 2005

(In thousands, except per share amounts)

 

 

 

Historical

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

SkyWest, Inc.

 

January 1, 2005
- June 30, 2005
ASA

 

July 1, 2005 -
September 7,
2005 ASA

 

Pro Forma Adjustments

 

Pro Forma Combined

 

OPERATING REVENUES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Passenger

 

$

1,203,991

 

$

551,323

 

$

224,543

 

$

22,218

(A)

$

2,002,075

 

Ground handling and other

 

17,693

 

 

2,037

 

 

19,730

 

Total operating revenues

 

1,221,684

 

551,323

 

226,580

 

22,218

 

2,021,805

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATING EXPENSES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Flying operations

 

669,964

 

 

 

 

 

394,236

(I)

1,064,200

 

Customer service

 

177,387

 

 

 

 

 

131,964

(C)

309,351

 

Maintenance

 

107,686

 

 

 

 

 

106,806

(C)

214,492

 

Depreciation and amortization

 

70,238

 

40,633

 

12,517

 

(5,449

)(J)

117,939

 

Promotion and sales

 

2,874

 

 

 

 

 

255

(C)

3,129

 

General and administrative

 

58,497

 

 

 

 

 

30,029

(C)

88,526

 

Salaries & related costs

 

 

 

150,092

 

56,816

 

(206,908

)(K)

 

Aircraft fuel

 

 

 

143,806

 

69,200

 

(213,006

)(C)

 

Aircraft maintenance materials and outside repairs

 

 

 

51,773

 

18,619

 

(70,392

)(C)

 

Aircraft rent

 

 

 

31,914

 

11,279

 

(43,193

)(C)

 

Contracted services

 

 

 

46,441

 

18,470

 

(64,911

)(C)

 

Landing fees and other rents

 

 

 

25,052

 

10,820

 

(35,872

)(C)

 

Other

 

 

 

29,082

 

13,661

 

(42,743

)(C)

 

Total operating expenses

 

1,086,646

 

518,793

 

211,382

 

(19,184

)

1,797,637

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

OPERATING INCOME

 

135,038

 

32,530

 

15,198

 

41,402

 

224,168

 

OTHER INCOME (EXPENSE):

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Interest income

 

10,165

 

2,628

 

579

 

(5,082

)(F)

8,290

 

Interest expense

 

(25,510

)

(32,017

)

(14,276

)

5,175

(G)

(66,628

)

Other

 

(585

)

101

 

(150

)

 

 

(634

)

Total other income (expense), net

 

(15,930

)

(29,288

)

(13,847

)

93

 

(58,972

)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

INCOME BEFORE INCOME TAXES

 

119,108

 

3,242

 

1,351

 

41,495

 

165,196

 

PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES

 

45,525

 

1,308

 

1,150

 

16,443

(H)

64,426

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NET INCOME

 

$

73,583

 

$

1,934

 

$

201

 

$

25,052

 

$

100,770

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

BASIC EARNINGS PER SHARE

 

$

1.27

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

1.75

 

DILUTED EARNINGS PER SHARE

 

$

1.26

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

$

1.72

 

WEIGHTED AVERAGE OF COMMON SHARES:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Basic

 

57,729

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

57,729

 

Diluted

 

58,512

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

58,512

 

 

2



 

SkyWest, Inc.

Notes to Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Combined Statements of Operations

(in thousands)

 

1.                                       Basis of Presentation

 

On September 7, 2005, SkyWest, Inc. (the “Company”) completed its acquisition of all of the issued and outstanding capital stock of Atlantic Southeast Airlines, Inc. (“ASA”) from ASA Holdings, Inc., a subsidiary of Delta Air Lines, Inc. (“Delta”).  In connection with the acquisition of ASA, the Company’s wholly-owned subsidiary, SkyWest Airlines, Inc. (“SkyWest Airlines”), and Delta entered into an Amended and Restated Delta Connection Agreement, and ASA and Delta entered into a Second Amended and Restated Delta Connection Agreement (collectively, the “Delta Connection Agreements”), whereby SkyWest Airlines and ASA have agreed to provide regional airline service in the Delta flight system.  The Delta Connection Agreements became effective September 8, 2005.

 

The unaudited pro forma condensed combined statements of operations for the nine months ended September 30, 2005 and for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2004 have been prepared to illustrate the pro forma effects of the ASA acquisition as if it had occurred on January 1, 2004 and as if the ASA Delta Connection Agreement was effective January 1, 2004.  The operations of ASA commencing on September 8, 2005 and through September 30, 2005, are included in the Company’s historical statement of operations.  No pro forma effect has been given to the SkyWest Airlines Delta Connection Agreement prior to the effective date of September 8, 2005.

 

2.                                       Pro Forma Financial Statements and Adjustments

 

The pro forma condensed combined information set forth in this Form 8-K/A is presented for illustrative purposes only.   Such information does not purport to be indicative of the results of operations and financial position that actually would have resulted had the acquisition occurred on the date indicated, nor is it indicative of the results that may be expected in future periods.  The pro forma adjustments are based upon information and assumptions available at the time of filing this Form 8-K/A.

 

The pro forma condensed combined statements of operations give effect to the following pro forma adjustments:

 

(A)                              Reflects the restatement of ASA revenues from the ASA historical code-share agreement with Delta to the ASA Delta Connection Agreement as if the ASA Delta Connection Agreement was effective January 1, 2004.  Under the terms of the ASA Delta Connection Agreement, Delta agrees to compensate ASA for certain direct costs associated with operating the Delta Connection flights as defined in the ASA Delta Connection Agreement, plus, if ASA completes a certain minimum percentage of its Delta Connection flights, an additional percentage of such costs.  Additionally, ASA’s Delta Connection Agreement provides for incentive compensation upon satisfaction of certain performance goals.  Under the ASA Delta Connection Agreement, excess margins over certain percentages must be returned or shared with Delta, depending on various conditions.  The pro forma revenue adjustment assumes no incentive compensation was achieved for either the year ended December 31, 2004 or for the interim period ended September 7, 2005.

 

(B)                                Reflects a reclassification of ASA expenses reported under the ASA financial statement classification to the Company’s financial statement classification of $451,103 for consistency purposes and a reduction of aircraft lease expense on aircraft lease obligations retained by Delta in connection with the Company’s acquisition of ASA of $(14,121).

 

(C)                                Reflects a reclassification of ASA expenses reported under the ASA financial statement classifications to the Company’s financial statement classifications for consistency purposes.

 

(D)                               Reflects an adjustment to ASA depreciation for changes in estimated useful lives for property and equipment using the Company’s accounting policies and reflects an adjustment to the depreciable basis of property and equipment and intangible assets resulting from the preliminary valuation and purchase price adjustments of $7,400 and a reduction of depreciation expense on aircraft retained by Delta in connection with the Company’s acquisition of ASA of $(6,658).

 

(E)                                 Reflects a reclassification of ASA expenses reported under the ASA financial statement classification to the Company’s financial statement classification of $286,154 for consistency purposes and a reduction of accrued wage expense of $6,104 to reflect amounts expected to be paid.

 

(F)                                 Reflects a reduction of interest income resulting from net cash paid to Delta of $376,912 for the acquisition of ASA.

 

(G)                                Reflects the elimination of interest expense on aircraft debt obligations retained by Delta in connection with the Company’s acquisition of ASA.

 

3



 

(H)                               Reflects the income tax effects of the pro forma adjustments.

 

(I)                                    Reflects a reclassification of ASA expenses report under the ASA financial statement classification to the Company’s financial statement classification of $404,826 for consistency purposes and a reduction of aircraft lease expense on aircraft lease obligations retained by Delta in connection with the Company’s acquisition of ASA of $(10,590).

 

(J)                                   Reflects an adjustment to ASA depreciation for changes in estimated useful lives for property and equipment using the Company’s accounting policies and reflects an adjustment to the depreciable basis of property and equipment and intangible assets resulting from the preliminary valuation and purchase price adjustments of $(455) and a reduction of depreciation expense on aircraft retained by Delta in connection with the Company’s acquisition of ASA of $(4,994).

 

(K)                               Reflects a reclassification of ASA expenses reported under the ASA financial statement classification to the Company’s financial statement classification of $203,762 for consistency purposes and a reduction of accrued wage expense of $3,146 to reflect amounts expected to be paid.

 

4


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