American Airlines signs 12-year capacity purchase agreement with Republic

American Airlines (AAMRQ) has signed a 12-year capacity purchase agreement with Republic Airways Holdings (RJET) to provide large regional jet flying for the first time in the company's history. This agreement, which is subject to court approval, was enabled by the new pilot contract. Through the agreement, Republic Airways will acquire 53 Embraer E-175 jets featuring a two-class cabin with 12 First Class seats and 64 seats in the Main Cabin. The aircraft, which will be branded with the newly revealed American Eagle livery and operated by the Republic Airlines subsidiary of Republic Airways Holdings, will phase into operation at approximately two to three aircraft per month beginning in mid-2013. All 53 aircraft are expected to be in operation by the first quarter of 2015.