Thirty-Day Period For Alternative Offers On Proposed Merger With America West Expires

US Airways said Saturday that the 30-day period for alternative offers on its proposed merger with America West Airlines has ended without any competing offers having been submitted. US Airways President and Chief Executive Officer Bruce R. Lakefield issued the following statement:

"In formulating our merger proposal with America West, we took a comprehensive approach built on a robust business plan, a strong balance sheet, an attractive customer proposition, and support from key stakeholders. Over the past ten days, we have made significant progress in laying the groundwork for completing the merger, including antitrust clearance from the Department of Justice, the filing of registration statements with the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the submission of our disclosure statement and Plan of Reorganization with the bankruptcy court. We also remain in discussions with other potential financing partners to provide additional liquidity for the transaction.

"It would have been difficult for other offers to have provided comparable value to our stakeholders, and with this bidding process now behind us, we will begin planning with America West for the integration of our two companies, which will create an airline that offers numerous benefits for our customers and the communities we serve."

FMI: www.usairways.com, www.americawest.com