[BA argues that Chapter 11 is used as another form of state aid and keeps the industry bloated at a time when it would benefit from a sharp reduction in airlines.] In the last four years, the U.S. airlines have soaked up $15 billion to $20 billion (12 billion-16 billion) of public subsidies and loan guarantees, ... They're operating in protected markets, they're hoovering up public funds and still they can't make a profit. Rod Eddington