America West Holdings CEO William Franke Talks to The Wall Street Transcript.

Business Editors

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--May 7, 2001

The Wall Street Transcript has published an in-depth interview with William Franke, CEO of America West Holdings (NYSE:AWA), in which he talks at length about the company's future.

The entire 3,200-word interview is available online at http://www.twst.com/info/info343.htm

Franke gives an overview of the company. "I've been here for almost nine years and have participated in America West's growth from a smaller regional carrier into a national aviation and travel company. It is headquartered in Tempe, Arizona, with 2000 year-end sales running at about $2.3 billion. We created a holding company in 1998 and there are two principal subsidiaries of that holding company -- America West Airlines and The Leisure Company. America West Airlines is the ninth largest domestic commercial air carrier. We provide scheduled passenger and cargo transportation throughout North America."

Franke explains, "We've had a market-driven growth strategy that has been quite successful over the course of the last five years. Among the hub and spoke carriers we've had an industry leading growth rate at an average of 8%-10% per year over this time frame. We expect, longer term, to continue growing at that same rate. In light of current industry economics, however, we have reduced that rate of growth this year and currently expect to have that growth rate reduced next year as well, as the airline industry goes through an uncertain economy. We expect to grow about 5%-6% this year and about 1%-2% next year."

Looking forward, Franke states, "So if I were an investor, I would look at this airline as one that has stood the test of time in competition with Southwest and performed very well. We have differentiated the product in order to complete that competition. And we are able to provide a similar product to the major carriers at a lower cost to the customer."

This interview is part of a 46-page Airlines Issue available at http://www.twst.com/info/info343.htm or by calling [phone]

The Wall Street Transcript does not endorse the views of any interviewees nor does it make stock recommendations. For subscription information call [phone].