ChrisVJ - overall AA is just barely breaking even, and only slightly profitable internationally, and it's the best performing of the 'legacy' carriers...
A new CEO, early concessions, and the advantage of being on the outside of bankruptcy looking at the travails of others are what's making AA's staff tread lightly and try and keep the ship on an even keel. AA is weighed down by a crushing long- and short-term debt load, although the pension plans are in suprisingly good shape at over 80% (real) funding level.
I will admit though, that there are those who are still in the 'nuclear option' mode of passenger service - who just don't seem to get it. It only takes one disgruntled employee to ruin the travel experience that 40 others are doing their best to sustain.
One of the core issues that is inevitably going to come up sooner rather than later is whether Air Transport in the US is a utility and should be more closely regulated. The Republicans hate regulation, but some experts are now writing papers to the effect that permanent damage is being done to the US air network, particularly threatening places where the discounters cannot fly, such as the snow resorts. I think a double CH11 filing is going to raise eyebrows in Washington, and lead to hearings.....