american, delta and tpg all told me they do not comment on rumors or speculation about possible sales. this could be just the first in a parade of bidders for the bankrupt airline. >> american airlines says it expects to fly out of bankruptcy in 12 to 18 months. that's what makes it so attractive to tpg and delta. both companies face huge hurdles. a delta buy would give it 40% of the market making it impossible to clear aitrust scrutiny. would have to make a full price offer. it had $4 billion in cash. ut arlington professor says that allows executives to call the shots without fear of a court ordered sale. >> move to try to prevent themselves from being in a real sink hole and be able to keep operating and not be in desperate conditions. >> employees aren't sure what to make of an ownership change. the idea of a sale was not discussed. >> the uncertainty of it all is what creates the problem for your average worker out there. >> one thing is certain that the end of bankruptcy american airlines will remain intact. gates and routes still have huge potential no matter whose name or logo is on them. >> reporter: the new ceo sent a letter to employees. did not mention anything about selling the company but amr is working it's way through bankruptcy. reworking its fleet and move on to employee contracts which he said would be difficult. live at dfw, channel 8 news.