I'm just reading between the lines, but it looks like AA may be getting ready to close MCIE. Either that, or they are hoping the city of Kansas City will give them tremendous advantages for staying.
"An engine-overhaul shop that American said it would start up at the base is on hold, Battaglia said, but the airline has not indicated those plans are canceled."
Why is it on hold?
"Some plans, however, are being delayed because of American's current financial predicament, Whitemon said, including putting the American logo on the overhaul base."
Putting the AA logo on the base would cost how much? I'm sure they could wake up a few guys in facilities maintenance, and buy some more blue and red paint.
"Nevertheless, the lease on the overhaul base that American took over from TWA expires at the end of the year. And plans to renovate and upgrade the facility remain on the back burner despite receiving voter approval to issue $110 million in revenue bonds for the project."
Lease expires at the end of the year. They are not using those $$$ millions for upgrades. Something is up.