FORM 10-Q SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION Washington, D.C. 20549 (Mark One) [X] QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the quarterly period ended September 30, 1997 OR [ ] TRANSITION REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934 For the transition period from __________ to __________ Commission file number 1-6033 UAL CORPORATION --------------- (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter) Delaware 36-2675207 -------- ---------- (State or other jurisdiction of (I.R.S. Employer incorporation or organization) Identification No.) 1200 East Algonquin Road, Elk Grove Township, Illinois 60007 Mailing Address: P. O. Box 66919, Chicago, Illinois 60666 ----------------------------------------------------------- (Address of principal executive offices) (Zip Code) Registrant's telephone number, including area code (847) 700-4000 ----------------------------------------------------------------- Indicate by check mark whether the registrant (1) has filed all reports required to be filed by Section 13 or 15(d) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 during the preceding 12 months (or for such shorter period that the registrant was required to file such reports), and (2) has been subject to such filing requirements for the past 90 days. Yes X No ------- ------- Indicate the number of shares outstanding of each of the issuer's classes of common stock, as of the latest practicable date. Outstanding at Class October 31, 1997 ----- ---------------- Common Stock ($0.01 par value) 58,782,762 UAL Corporation and Subsidiary Companies Report on Form 10-Q ------------------------------------------------------------ For the Quarter Ended September 30, 1997 ---------------------------------------- Index - - ----- PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION Page No. - - ------ --------------------- ------- Item 1. Financial Statements Condensed Statements of Consolidated 3 Financial Position - as of September 30, 1997 (Unaudited) and December 31, 1996 Statements of Consolidated Operations 5 (Unaudited) - for the three months and nine months ended September 30, 1997 and 1996 Condensed Statements of Consolidated 7 Cash Flows (Unaudited) - for the nine months ended September 30, 1997 and 1996 Notes to Consolidated Financial 8 Statements (Unaudited) Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis 13 of Financial Condition and Results of Operations PART II. OTHER INFORMATION - - ------- ----------------- Item 1. Legal Proceedings 21 Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K 22 Signatures 23 - - ---------- Exhibit Index 24 - - ------------- PART I. FINANCIAL INFORMATION Item 1. Financial Statements UAL Corporation and Subsidiary Companies Condensed Statements of Consolidated Financial Position (In Millions) September 30, 1997 December 31, Assets (Unaudited) 1996 - - ------ ----------- ---- Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 529 $ 229 Short-term investments 594 468 Receivables, net 1,241 962 Inventories, net 349 369 Deferred income taxes 209 227 Prepaid expenses and other 302 427 ------- ------- 3,224 2,682 ------- ------- Operating property and equipment: Owned 13,889 12,325 Accumulated depreciation and amortization (5,252) (5,380) ------- ------- 8,637 6,945 ------- ------- Capital leases 2,199 1,881 Accumulated amortization (603) (583) ------- ------- 1,596 1,298 ------- ------- 10,233 8,243 ------- ------- Other assets: Intangibles, net 507 524 Deferred income taxes 139 132 Aircraft lease deposits 271 168 Other 1,012 928 ------- ------- 1,929 1,752 ------- ------- $ 15,386 $ 12,677 ======= ======= See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. UAL Corporation and Subsidiary Companies Condensed Statements of Consolidated Financial Position (In Millions) September 30, 1997 December 31, Liabilities and Stockholders' Equity (Unaudited) 1996 - - ------------------------------------ ----------- ---- Current liabilities: Long-term debt maturing within one year $ 303 $ 165 Current obligations under capital leases 166 132 Advance ticket sales 1,447 1,189 Accounts payable 1,066 994 Other 3,007 2,523 ------- ------- 5,989 5,003 ------- ------- Long-term debt 1,436 1,661 ------- ------- Long-term obligations under capital leases 1,640 1,325 ------- ------- Other liabilities and deferred credits: Deferred pension liability 165 178 Postretirement benefit liability 1,340 1,290 Deferred gains 1,101 1,151 Other 913 776 ------- ------- 3,519 3,395 ------- ------- Company-obligated mandatorily redeemable preferred securities of a subsidiary trust 102 102 ------- ------- Equity put warrants 61 - ------- ------- Minority interest - 31 ------- ------- Preferred stock committed to Supplemental ESOP 293 165 ------- ------- Stockholders' equity: Preferred stock - - Common stock at par 1 1 Additional capital invested 2,799 2,160 Retained earnings (deficit) 305 (566) Unearned ESOP preferred stock (282) (202) Other (477) (398) ------- ------- 2,346 995 ------- ------- Commitments and contingent liabilities (See note) ------- ------- $ 15,386 $ 12,677 ======= ======= See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. UAL Corporation and Subsidiary Companies Statements of Consolidated Operations (Unaudited) (In Millions, Except Per Share) Three Months Ended September 30 1997 1996 ---- ---- Operating revenues: Passenger $ 4,147 $ 4,003 Cargo 225 191 Other 268 294 ------- ------- 4,640 4,488 ------- ------- Operating expenses: Salaries and related costs 1,264 1,171 ESOP compensation expense 256 157 Aircraft fuel 510 538 Commissions 409 397 Purchased services 329 303 Aircraft rent 235 236 Landing fees and other rent 202 205 Depreciation and amortization 182 217 Aircraft maintenance 153 106 Other 537 548 ------- ------- 4,077 3,878 ------- ------- Earnings from operations 563 610 ------- ------- Other income (expense): Interest expense (73) (71) Interest capitalized 25 18 Interest income 13 10 Equity in earnings of affiliates 17 16 Gain on sale of partnership interest 275 - Gain on sale of affiliate's stock 103 - Miscellaneous, net (10) (28) ------- ------- 350 (55) ------- ------- Earnings before income taxes, distributions on preferred securities and extraordinary item 913 555 Provision for income taxes 333 208 ------- ------- Earnings before distributions on preferred securities and extraordinary item 580 347 Distributions on preferred securities, net of tax (1) - Extraordinary loss on early extinguishment of debt, net of tax - (7) ------- ------- Net earnings $ 579 $ 340 ======= ======= Earnings per share: Earnings before extraordinary item $ 5.61 $ 3.85 Extraordinary loss on early extinguishment of debt, net of tax - (0.08) ------- ------- Net earnings $ 5.61 $ 3.77 ======= ======= See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. UAL Corporation and Subsidiary Companies Statements of Consolidated Operations (Unaudited) (In Millions, Except Per Share) Nine Months Ended September 30 1997 1996 ---- ---- Operating revenues: Passenger $ 11,628 $ 10,975 Cargo 634 558 Other 881 853 ------- ------- 13,143 12,386 ------- ------- Operating expenses: Salaries and related costs 3,732 3,513 ESOP compensation expense 666 488 Aircraft fuel 1,559 1,504 Commissions 1,159 1,108 Purchased services 946 876 Aircraft rent 707 716 Landing fees and other rent 644 624 Depreciation and amortization 533 588 Aircraft maintenance 447 336 Other 1,582 1,563 ------- ------- 11,975 11,316 ------- ------- Earnings from operations 1,168 1,070 ------- ------- Other income (expense): Interest expense (213) (230) Interest capitalized 75 57 Interest income 36 40 Equity in earnings of affiliates 64 53 Gain on sale of partnership interest 275 - Gain on sale of affiliate's stock 103 - Miscellaneous, net (36) (53) ------- ------- 304 (133) ------- ------- Earnings before income taxes, distributions on preferred securities and extraordinary item 1,472 937 Provision for income taxes 542 357 ------- ------- Earnings before distributions on preferred securities and extraordinary item 930 580 Distributions on preferred securities, net of tax (4) - Extraordinary loss on early extinguishment of debt, net of tax - (66) ------- ------- Net earnings $ 926 $ 514 ======= ======= Per share, primary: Earnings before extraordinary item $ 9.01 $ 6.37 Extraordinary loss on early extinguishment of debt, net of tax - (0.82) ------- ------- Net earnings $ 9.01 $ 5.55 ======= ======= Per share, fully diluted: Earnings before extraordinary item $ 9.01 $ 6.20 Extraordinary loss on early extinguishment of debt, net of tax - (0.80) ------- ------- Net earnings $ 9.01 $ 5.40 ======= ======= See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. UAL Corporation and Subsidiary Companies Condensed Statements of Consolidated Cash Flows (Unaudited) (In Millions) Nine Months Ended September 30 1997 1996 ---- ---- Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period $ 229 $ 194 ------ ------ Cash flows from operating activities 2,397 1,964 ------ ------ Cash flows from investing activities: Additions to property and equipment (2,170) (1,101) Proceeds on disposition of property and equipment 41 20 Proceeds on disposition of ATS Partnership interest 539 - Decrease (increase) in short-term investments (126) 486 Other, net (20) (21) ------ ------ (1,736) (616) ------ ------ Cash flows from financing activities: Repayment of long-term debt (95) (674) Conversion of subordinated debentures - (324) Principal payments under capital lease obligations (116) (92) Repurchase of common stock (54) - Dividends paid (8) (18) Other, net (88) (190) ------ ------ (361) (1,298) ------ ------ Increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents 300 50 ------ ------ Cash and cash equivalents at end of period $ 529 $ 244 ====== ====== Cash paid during the period for: Interest (net of amounts capitalized) $ 118 $ 190 Income taxes $ 219 $ 181 Non-cash transactions: Capital lease obligations incurred $ 477 $ 497 Long-term debt incurred in connection with additions to equipment $ - $ 77 Increase in equity in connection with the conversion of subordinated debentures to common stock $ - $ 217 See accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements. UAL Corporation and Subsidiary Companies Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements (Unaudited) The Company - - ----------- UAL Corporation ("UAL" or the "Company") is a holding company whose principal subsidiary is United Air Lines, Inc. ("United"). Interim Financial Statements - - ---------------------------- The consolidated financial statements included herein have been prepared pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles have been condensed or omitted pursuant to or as permitted by such rules and regulations, although UAL believes that the disclosures are adequate to make the information presented not misleading. In management's opinion, all adjustments (which include only normal recurring adjustments) necessary for a fair presentation of the results of operations for the three and nine month periods have been made. These financial statements should be read in conjunction with the consolidated financial statements and footnotes thereto included in UAL's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year 1996. Accounting Policies - Derivative Financial Instruments - - ------------------------------------------------------ Foreign Currency ---------------- From time to time, United enters into Japanese yen forward exchange contracts to minimize gains and losses on the revaluation of short-term yen-denominated liabilities. The yen forwards typically have a 30-day maturity and are marked to fair value at the end of each accounting period. The unrealized mark- to-market gains and losses generally offset the losses and gains recorded on the liabilities. United has also entered into forwards and swaps to reduce exposure to currency fluctuations on yen-denominated capital lease obligations. The forwards' and swaps' cash flows mirror those of the capital leases. The premiums on the forwards and swaps, as measured at inception, are being amortized over their respective lives as components of interest expense. Any gains or losses realized upon the early termination of these forwards and swaps are deferred and recognized in income over the remaining life of the underlying exposure. Finally, the Company has begun to hedge the risks of exchange rate volatility on its anticipated future net yen cash flows by purchasing yen put options with little or no intrinsic value. The amount and duration of these options are synchronized with specific expected yen inflows, and thus, the put options have been designated as a hedge. The Company also sells yen call options from time to time. The premiums on yen option contracts are amortized over the lives of the contracts. Unrealized gains on purchased put option contracts are deferred until contract expiration and then recognized as a component of passenger revenue, and unrealized losses on written call options are recorded in "Miscellaneous, net" at the end of each accounting period. Interest Rates -------------- United has entered into swaps to reduce exposure to interest rate fluctuations in connection with certain debt, capital leases and operating leases. The swaps' cash flows mirror those of the underlying exposures. The premiums on the swaps, as measured at inception, are being amortized over their respective lives as components of interest expense. Any gains or losses realized upon the early termination of these swaps are deferred and recognized in income over the remaining life of the underlying exposure. Aircraft Fuel ------------- United uses a collar option strategy to hedge a portion of its price risk related to future aircraft fuel purchases. The collars, which have been designated a hedge, involve the purchase of fuel call options with the simultaneous sale of fuel put options with identical expiration dates. Premiums on fuel collar option contracts are deferred and amortized over the life of the contract. Gains or losses recognized upon contract expiration are recorded as a component of aircraft fuel expense. In addition, to a limited extent, United trades short-term heating oil futures contracts. Unrealized losses on these contracts are recorded currently in income while unrealized gains are deferred until contract expiration. Both gains and losses are recorded as a component of aircraft fuel expense. Employee Stock Ownership Plans - - ------------------------------ Pursuant to amended labor agreements which provide for wage and benefit reductions and work-rule changes which commenced July 1994, UAL has agreed to issue convertible preferred stock to employees. Note 2 of the Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements in the 1996 Annual Report on Form 10-K contains additional discussion of the agreements, stock to be issued to employees and the related accounting treatment. Shares earned in 1996 were allocated in March 1997 as follows: 190,307 shares of Class 2 ESOP Preferred Stock were contributed to the Non-Leveraged ESOP and an additional 537,917 shares were allocated in "book entry" form under the Supplemental Plan. Additionally, 2,345,745 shares of Class 1 ESOP Preferred Stock were allocated under the Leveraged ESOP. Finally, an additional 2,305,479 shares of Class 1 and Class 2 ESOP Preferred Stock have been committed to be released by the Company since January 1, 1997. In August 1997, UAL sold 1,848,629 shares of Class 1 ESOP Preferred Stock to the ESOP Trustee; this was the fourth of seven such sales. Other Income (Expense) - Miscellaneous - - -------------------------------------- "Miscellaneous, net" consisted of the following: Third Quarter Nine-month Period 1997 1996 1997 1996 ---- ---- ---- ---- Foreign exchange losses $ (5) $ (2) $ (15) $ (9) Minority interests (1) (6) (15) (18) Travel agency litigation settlement - (20) - (20) Other (4) - (6) (6) ---- ---- ---- ---- $ (10) $ (28) $ (36) $ (53) ==== ==== ==== ==== Income Taxes - - ------------ The provisions for income taxes are based on the estimated annual effective tax rate, which differs from the federal statutory rate of 35% principally due to state income taxes, dividends on ESOP Preferred Stock and certain nondeductible expenses. Deferred tax assets are recognized based upon UAL's history of operating earnings and expectations for future taxable income. Per Share Amounts - - ----------------- During the nine-month period ended September 30, 1996, UAL repurchased 2,553 shares of its Series B preferred stock at an aggregate cost of $84 million to be held in treasury. These transactions had no effect on earnings; however, the difference between the fair value of the consideration given and the carrying value of the preferred stock acquired is included in the computation of earnings per share. Per share amounts were calculated after providing for dividends on preferred stock, including ESOP convertible preferred stock, of $19 million in the 1997 third quarter, $15 million in the 1996 third quarter, $57 million in the 1997 nine- month period and $47 million in the 1996 nine-month period. Primary per share amounts for all periods were based on weighted average common shares and common equivalents outstanding, including ESOP shares committed to be released. In addition, fully diluted per share amounts assume the conversion of convertible debentures (for periods not actually converted) and elimination of related interest. In February 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued Statement of Financial Accounting Standards ("SFAS") No. 128, "Earnings Per Share," which established standards for computing and reporting earnings per share. SFAS No. 128 is effective for periods ending after December 15, 1997; earlier application is not permitted. Restatement of all prior-period earnings per share data is required. On a pro forma basis, 1997 earnings per share would be as follows: Three Months Ended Nine Months Ended ------------------ ----------------- Basic Earnings Per Share 9.39 14.66 Diluted Earnings Per Share 5.61 9.01 Prepayment of Long-Term Obligations - - ----------------------------------- On March 7, 1997, Air Wis Services, Inc. ("Air Wis"), a wholly owned subsidiary of UAL, issued a notice of redemption for all of its outstanding 7 3/4% convertible subordinated debentures, due 2010. On April 8, $16 million of debentures outstanding were redeemed at 100% of the principal amount plus accrued interest. During the nine months ended September 30, 1996, UAL repaid prior to maturity $535 million in principal amount of various debt securities, resulting in an extraordinary loss of $66 million, after a tax benefit of $40 million. Of this amount, $63 million was repaid during the third quarter, resulting in a $7 million extraordinary loss, net of tax benefits of $4 million. The securities were scheduled for repayment periodically through 2021. Related Party Transactions - - -------------------------- In July 1997, United completed the sale of its 77% general partnership interest in the Apollo Travel Services Partnership to Galileo International, Inc. See "Sale of Affiliate" in Item 2. Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of Operations. Stock Repurchases - - ----------------- During the third quarter, UAL's Board of Directors authorized the purchase of up to $250 million of the Company's common stock using a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the Apollo Travel Services Partnership. Through October 31, 1997, 1,271,000 shares had been repurchased and returned to treasury at a total cost of $108 million. Equity Put Warrants - - ------------------- In connection with the Company's stock repurchase program, UAL sold 750,000 equity put warrants at various strike prices during the third quarter. The put warrants entitle the holders to sell shares of UAL common stock to the Company at specified prices. The warrants have strike prices ranging from $76.53 to $84.21, expire at various dates through December 1, 1997 and are exercisable only at maturity. The maximum potential repurchase obligation of $61 million has been reclassified from stockholders' equity to equity put warrants at September 30. Contingencies and Commitments - - ----------------------------- UAL has certain contingencies resulting from litigation and claims (including environmental issues) incident to the ordinary course of business. Management believes, after considering a number of factors, including (but not limited to) the views of legal counsel, the nature of contingencies to which UAL is subject and its prior experience, that the ultimate disposition of these contingencies is not expected to materially affect UAL's consolidated financial position or results of operations. At September 30, 1997, commitments for the purchase of property and equipment, principally aircraft, approximated $5.7 billion, after deducting advance payments. An estimated $0.8 billion will be spent during the remainder of 1997, $2.4 billion in 1998, $1.3 billion in 1999, and $1.2 billion in 2000 and thereafter. The major commitments are for the purchase of B777, B747, B767, B757, A319 and A320 aircraft, which are scheduled to be delivered through 2002. During October 1997, The Boeing Company ("Boeing") notified United that production problems would delay aircraft scheduled to be delivered between fourth quarter 1997 and mid-1999. Specifically, deliveries on nine B747s, two B757s and four B767s scheduled for delivery from the fourth quarter of 1997 through mid-1999 will be delayed from one to two months. United expects to receive compensation from Boeing and also expects to make schedule adjustments and take other possible actions to offset the effects of the delays. As a result, the Company expects the impact of the announced delivery delays to be minimal. United's contract with the Association of Flight Attendants ("AFA") became amendable March 1, 1996. On October 1, 1997, the AFA ratified a new contract. The agreement, which will remain in effect through 2006, includes provisions for increased wages and benefits as well as work rule changes designed to help the Company achieve its customer satisfaction objectives. Item 2. MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF OPERATIONS LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES - - ------------------------------- UAL's total of cash and cash equivalents and short-term investments was $1.123 billion at September 30, 1997, compared to $697 million at December 31, 1996. Cash flows from operating activities for the nine-month period amounted to $2.397 billion. Financing activities included principal payments under debt and capital lease obligations of $95 million and $116 million, respectively, as well as $54 million for common stock repurchases. In the first nine months of 1997, United took delivery of four A320, eleven B777, five B747 and two A319 aircraft. Eighteen of these aircraft were purchased and four were acquired under capital leases. Additionally, United acquired two B767 and one DC10-10 off-lease during the first nine months of 1997. Property additions, including aircraft spare parts, facilities and ground equipment, amounted to $2.170 billion, while property dispositions resulted in proceeds of $41 million. The Company's sale of its interest in the Apollo Travel Services Partnership ("ATS") in July 1997 provided $539 million in cash proceeds (see "Sale of Affiliate"). During the third quarter, UAL's Board of Directors authorized the purchase of up to $250 million of the Company's common stock using a portion of the proceeds. As of October 31, 1997, 1,271,000 shares of common stock had been repurchased at a total purchase price of $108 million. At September 30, 1997, commitments for the purchase of property and equipment, principally aircraft, approximated $5.7 billion, after deducting advance payments. An estimated $0.8 billion will be spent during the remainder of 1997, $2.4 billion in 1998, $1.3 billion in 1999, and $1.2 billion in 2000 and thereafter. The major commitments are for the purchase of B777, B747, B767, B757, A319 and A320 aircraft, which are scheduled to be delivered through 2002. During October 1997, The Boeing Company ("Boeing") notified United that production problems would delay aircraft scheduled to be delivered between fourth quarter 1997 and mid-1999. Specifically, deliveries on nine B747s, two B757s and four B767s scheduled for delivery from the fourth quarter of 1997 through mid-1999 will be delayed from one to two months. United expects to receive compensation from Boeing and also expects to make schedule adjustments and take other possible actions to offset the effects of the delays. As a result, the Company expects the impact of the announced delivery delays to be minimal. In April 1997, Standard & Poor's raised its credit rating on United's senior unsecured debt to BB+ from BB and raised its credit rating on UAL's Series B preferred stock and redeemable preferred securities to BB- from B+. Moody's Investors Service Inc.'s ratings on United's senior unsecured debt remains Baa3 and its ratings on UAL's Series B preferred stock and redeemable preferred securities remains Ba3. RESULTS OF OPERATIONS --------------------- UAL's results of operations for interim periods are not necessarily indicative of those for an entire year, as a result of seasonal factors to which United is subject. First and fourth quarter results are normally affected by reduced travel demand in the fall and winter and United's operations, particularly at its Chicago and Denver hubs and at certain east coast cities, are adversely affected by winter weather on occasion. The results of operations in the airline business historically fluctuate significantly in response to general economic conditions. This is because small fluctuations in yield (passenger revenue per revenue passenger mile) and cost per available seat mile can have a significant effect on operating results. UAL anticipates industrywide fare levels, increasing low-cost competition, general economic conditions, fluctuation of foreign currency exchange rates, fuel costs, U.S. and international governmental policies and other factors will continue to affect its operating results. During the third quarter of 1997, a new law was enacted to replace the Federal passenger excise tax which expired September 30, 1997. The new legislation includes a gradual reduction in the 10% airline ticket tax to 7.5% by the year 2002, a phasing in of a $3 "head tax" per domestic flight segment, an increase in round-trip international departure and arrival taxes from $6 to $24 per passenger and a tax on the purchase of frequent flyer miles. The Company expects that the new legislation will increase United's annual tax burden by approximately $80 million, but is unable to determine how much of this increase it will be able to pass on to its customers. During the third quarter of 1997, United implemented changes to its travel agency commission payment plan, which lowered the base commission paid to travel agents from 10% to 8% on all tickets purchased in the U.S. and Canada for both domestic and international travel. Commissions on domestic tickets will be a maximum of $25 one-way ($50 round-trip). This action is expected to save approximately $100 million annually in commission costs. Summary of Results ------------------ UAL's earnings from operations were $1,168 million in the first nine months of 1997, compared to operating earnings of $1,070 million in the first nine months of 1996. UAL's net earnings were $926 million ($9.01 per share, primary and fully diluted), compared to net earnings of $514 million ($5.55 per share, primary; $5.40 per share, fully diluted) during the same period in 1996. The 1997 nine-month period includes an after- tax gain on the ATS/Galileo transaction (see "Sale of Affiliate") of $235 million ($2.43 per share, primary and fully diluted). The 1996 nine-month period includes an extraordinary loss of $66 million ($0.82 per share, primary; $0.80 per share, fully diluted) on early extinguishment of debt. In the third quarter of 1997, UAL's earnings from operations were $563 million compared to operating earnings of $610 million in the third quarter of 1996. UAL had net earnings in the 1997 third quarter of $579 million ($5.61 per share), compared to net earnings of $340 million in the same period of 1996 ($3.77 per share). The 1997 third quarter results include the after-tax gain on the ATS/Galileo transaction of $235 million ($2.35 per share, primary and fully diluted). The 1996 third quarter results include an extraordinary loss of $7 million ($0.08 per share) on early extinguishment of debt. The 1996 per share amounts for the nine-month period also include the effects on equity of the repurchase of Series B preferred stock. See "Per Share Amounts" in the notes to consolidated financial statements. Management believes that a more complete understanding of UAL's results can be gained by viewing them on a pro forma, "fully distributed" basis. This presentation considers all ESOP shares which will ultimately be distributed to employees throughout the ESOP (rather than just the shares committed to be released) to be immediately outstanding and thus fully distributed. Consistent with this presentation, the ESOP compensation expense is excluded from fully distributed net earnings and ESOP convertible preferred stock dividends are not deducted from earnings attributable to common stockholders. Also, no adjustments are made to fully distributed earnings to reflect future salary increases. A comparison of results reported on a fully distributed basis to results reported under generally accepted accounting principles (GAAP) is as follows: Three Months Ended Three Months Ended September 30, 1997 September 30, 1996 GAAP Fully GAAP Fully (fully diluted) Distributed (fully diluted) Distributed --------------- ----------- --------------- ----------- Net Income $ 579 $ 734 $ 340 $ 437 Per Share: Earnings before gain on sale and extraordinary loss $ 3.26 $ 3.75 $ 3.85 $ 3.34 Gain on ATS/Galileo transaction, net 2.35 1.77 - - Extraordinary loss, net of tax - - (0.08) (0.05) ----- ----- ----- ----- $ 5.61 $ 5.52 $ 3.77 $ 3.29 ===== ===== ===== ===== Nine Months Ended Nine Months Ended September 30, 1997 September 30, 1996 GAAP Fully GAAP Fully (fully diluted) Distributed (fully diluted) Distributed --------------- ----------- --------------- ----------- Net Income $ 926 $ 1,325 $ 514 $ 819 Per Share: Earnings before preferred stock transactions, gain on sale and extraordinary loss $ 6.58 $ 8.19 $ 6.45 $ 6.64 Gain on ATS/Galileo transaction, net 2.43 1.77 - - Preferred stock transactions - - (0.25) (0.16) Extraordinary loss, - - (0.80) (0.50) net of tax ----- ----- ----- ----- $ 9.01 $ 9.96 $ 5.40 $ 5.98 ===== ===== ===== ===== Specific factors affecting UAL's consolidated operations for the third quarter and first nine months of 1997 are described below. Third Quarter 1997 Compared with Third Quarter 1996 --------------------------------------------------- Operating revenues increased $152 million (3%). United's revenue per available seat mile decreased 1% to 10.43 cents. Passenger revenues increased $144 million (4%) on a 4% increase in revenue passenger miles in spite of a 1% decrease in yield to 12.33 cents. The following analysis by market is based on information reported to the U.S. Department of Transportation: Domestic revenue passenger miles increased 2%, while domestic yield decreased 3% from the year before as a result of the reimposition of the Federal passenger excise tax for the entire 1997 third quarter. In the Pacific, revenue passenger miles remained unchanged; however, yield increased 3% from the same period last year, largely due to a stronger Japanese yen versus the dollar. Atlantic revenue passenger miles increased 27% with a 4% increase in yield over the same period last year due to a continued larger proportion of high-yield traffic. Latin America revenue passenger miles remained unchanged over the same period last year, with a 7% increase in yield, due to a strengthening Latin economy. Available seat miles increased 4% systemwide, reflecting increases of 25% in the Atlantic, 2% on Domestic routes and 2% in the Pacific. The system passenger load factor decreased 0.1 point to 75.3%. Cargo revenues increased $34 million (18%) due to increases in both freight and mail revenues. Freight ton miles increased 28% due to the increase in aircraft assigned to the dedicated freighter operation and the introduction of long-range B777-200B aircraft, principally in the Atlantic market. Mail ton miles increased 9%. However, a 6% lower freight yield was only partially offset by a 3% increase in mail yield. Other operating revenues decreased $26 million (8%) since ATS revenues are no longer consolidated after the sale of ATS in July. Operating expenses increased $199 million (5%) and United's cost per available seat mile increased 2%, from 9.06 cents to 9.20 cents, including ESOP compensation expense. Without the ESOP compensation expense, United's cost per available seat mile would have decreased 1%, from 8.69 cents to 8.62. ESOP compensation expense increased $99 million (63%), reflecting the increase in the estimated average fair value of ESOP preferred stock committed to be released to employees as a result of UAL's higher common stock price. Salaries and related costs increased $93 million (8%) primarily due to mid-term wage adjustments that took effect July 1. Aircraft maintenance increased $47 million (44%) due to increased purchased maintenance, as well as the timing of maintenance cycles. Purchased services increased $26 million (9%) due principally to volume-related increases in computer reservations fees, credit card discounts and communication charges. Depreciation and amortization expense decreased $35 million (16%) despite the acquisition of new aircraft, largely due to a $30 million charge in the 1996 third quarter to reduce the carrying value of aircraft seats being replaced, as well as lower depreciation on DC10-10 aircraft which are scheduled for retirement. Fuel expense decreased $28 million (5%) due to an 8% decrease in the average price per gallon of fuel to 65.3 cents. Other income (expense) amounted to $350 million in income for the third quarter of 1997 compared to $55 million in expense for the third quarter of 1996. Interest capitalized, primarily on aircraft advance payments, increased $7 million (39%). Included in "Miscellaneous, net" in the 1997 third quarter were foreign exchange losses of $5 million compared to foreign exchange losses of $2 million in the 1996 third quarter. In addition, the third quarter of 1997 included a $275 million gain on the sale of ATS and a $103 million gain on the sale of Galileo International, Inc. stock. The third quarter of 1996 included a $20 million charge for the settlement of litigation related to the travel agency commission cap implemented by the Company in February 1995. Nine Months 1997 Compared with Nine Months 1996 ----------------------------------------------- Operating revenues increased $757 million (6%). United's revenue per available seat mile increased 2% to 10.35 cents. Passenger revenue increased $653 million (6%), due principally to a 4% increase in revenue passenger miles and a 2% increase in yield to 12.56 cents. The following analysis by market is based on information reported to the U.S. Department of Transportation: Domestic revenue passenger miles increased 3% while domestic yield remained unchanged. In the Pacific, revenue passenger miles increased 1% with a 3% increase in yield from the same period last year, largely due to a stronger Japanese yen versus the dollar. Latin America revenue passenger miles increased 3% over the same period last year, with an 11% increase in yield as a result of a strengthening Latin economy. Atlantic revenue passenger miles increased 20%, while yield increased 4% due to a larger proportion of high-yield traffic and an improved fare environment. Available seat miles increased 4% systemwide, reflecting increases of 19% in the Atlantic, 3% on Domestic routes and 3% in the Pacific. The system passenger load factor increased 0.1 point to 72.6%. Cargo revenues increased $76 million (14%) on increases of 23% in freight ton miles and 6% in mail ton miles, as a result of a new dedicated freighter operation and the introduction of long- range B777-200B aircraft. A 7% decrease in freight yield was partially offset by a 3% increase in mail yield. Other operating revenues increased $28 million (3%) due to increases in Mileage Plus partner-related revenues and contract maintenance and fuel sales to third parties, which were partially offset by the decrease in ATS revenues after the sale of ATS in July. Operating expenses increased $659 million (6%) and United's cost per available seat mile increased 2%, from 9.25 to 9.45 cents, including ESOP compensation expense. Without the ESOP compensation expense, United's 1997 nine-month cost per available seat mile would have been 8.93 cents, an increase of 1% from 1996. ESOP compensation expense increased $178 million (36%), reflecting the increase in the estimated average fair value of ESOP stock committed to be released to employees as a result of UAL's higher common stock price. Salaries and related costs increased $219 million (6%) as a result of increased staffing in certain customer-oriented positions, as well as mid-term wage adjustments which took effect July 1. Aircraft maintenance increased $111 million (33%) due to increased purchased maintenance as well as the timing of maintenance cycles. Aircraft fuel increased $55 million (4%) due to a 3% increase in consumption and a 1% increase in the average price per gallon of fuel to 70.1 cents. Purchased services increased $70 million (8%) due principally to volume- related increases in computer reservations fees, credit card discounts and communication charges. Depreciation and amortization decreased $55 million (9%) despite the acquisition of new aircraft, due to lower depreciation on DC10-10 aircraft which are scheduled for retirement, a gain on the sale of one B747-SP aircraft and a $30 million charge in 1996 to reduce the carrying value of aircraft seats being replaced. Aircraft rent decreased $9 million (1%) due to a decrease in the number of aircraft on operating leases. Other income (expense) amounted to $304 million in income for the first nine months of 1997 compared to $133 million in expense for the first nine months of 1996. Interest capitalized, primarily on aircraft advance payments, increased $18 million (32%). Interest expense decreased $17 million (7%) due to the prepayment of long-term debt in 1996. Equity in earnings of affiliates increased $11 million (21%) due to higher Galileo International, Inc. ("Galileo") earnings resulting from increased booking revenues. In addition, the 1997 period included a $275 million gain on the sale of ATS and a $103 million gain on the sale of Galileo stock. The 1996 period included a $20 million charge for the settlement of litigation related to the travel agency commission cap implemented by the Company in February 1995. SALE OF AFFILIATE - - ----------------- In July 1997, United completed the sale of its interest in the Apollo Travel Services Partnership ("ATS"), a 77% owned affiliate whose accounts were consolidated, to Galileo International, Inc. ("Galileo"), heretofore a 38% owned affiliate accounted for under the equity method, for $539 million in cash. This transaction resulted in a pre-tax gain of approximately $405 million. Of this amount, $275 million was recognized during the third quarter and the balance will be recognized over the next 25 years, the estimated remaining life of the assets acquired by Galileo. Galileo raised a portion of the proceeds used to purchase ATS through the completion of an initial public offering of 16,799,700 shares of its common stock, representing 16.0% of its economic interest, at $24.50 per share for net proceeds of approximately $390 million. This transaction resulted in a reduction of the Company's ownership in Galileo from 38% to 32%. In accordance with the Company's policy of recognizing gains or losses on the sale of a subsidiary's stock based on the difference between the offering price and the Company's carrying amount of such stock, the Company recognized a pre-tax gain of $103 million during the third quarter. Pursuant to Statement of Financial Accounting Standards No. 109, the Company also recorded $40 million of deferred taxes related to this gain. In connection with the sale, United entered into an additional services agreement under which the Company will provide certain marketing and other services designed to increase the competitiveness of Galileo's business and to generate additional bookings and revenues for Galileo. Under this agreement, United could receive up to $154 million (on a present value basis) in the sixth year following the sale, based on specified improvements in air booking revenues over a five-year period. United continues to account for Galileo under the equity method and will continue to purchase computer reservations services under its existing services agreement with Galileo. LABOR AGREEMENTS AND WAGE ADJUSTMENTS - - ------------------------------------- Both the Air Line Pilots Association, International ("ALPA") and the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers ("IAM") ratified previously announced mid-term wage adjustments. Included in the agreements were a 5% increase to wage rates for each union group in July 1997 and a second 5% increase in July 1998. Further, the agreement with ALPA calls for a corresponding 5% increase in both 1997 and 1998 to "book rates" (book rates are used to compute certain other employee benefits), and the agreement with the IAM provided for lump sum payments for all IAM employees and increases in hourly license premium and skill pay for mechanics. These agreements also provide for restoration of wage rates for the two groups in the year 2000 to levels that existed prior to the recapitalization in July 1994, as well as restoration of the Company's contribution to the pilots' defined contribution plan from its current rate of 1% to its pre-ESOP rate of 9% in the year 2000. In March 1997, the Company also announced the details of mid-term wage adjustments for non-union United States salaried and management employees. Salaried employees received a 5% base salary increase in July 1997, as well as a lump-sum payment. They will also receive a 5% increase in July 1998. In addition, salaried employees hired on or after February 1, 1994 will receive two additional annual 3.5% pay increases. Management employees received a 4% increase in July 1997 and will receive an additional 4% increase in July 1998, and management employees not participating in the Company's Incentive Compensation Plan will participate in a three-year profit-sharing plan that could pay an additional amount in 1998, 1999 and 2000, if the Company meets specific pre-tax earnings objectives in 1997, 1998 and 1999, respectively. Depending on financial results, the maximum profit sharing payout is 3.75% of annual wages. On October 1, 1997, the Association of Flight Attendants ("AFA") ratified a previously announced agreement on a new contract which will remain in effect through March 1, 2006. Included in the contract are lump sum payments of 7% in December 1997, 4% in December 1998 and December 1999, and 5% in 2001, 2003 and 2005; as well as minimum 2% wage increases in 2000, 2002 and 2004. Additionally, the contract includes a series of arbitrations beginning in 2001 which can award additional compensation increases, subject to meeting Vision 2000 goals as discussed below. The agreement also provides for benefits and work rule changes and a number of service quality and productivity enhancements designed to help the Company achieve its customer satisfaction objectives. The wage, benefit and work-rule adjustments outlined above are consistent with the Company's objective, known as Vision 2000, to put employee compensation costs on a competitive level with peer group compensation elsewhere in the industry at the conclusion of the agreements outlined above. The ultimate cost to the Company of Vision 2000, particularly given that peer group compensation is subject to change between now and the conclusion of the agreements, is not determinable. However, the Company expects the aggregate after-tax cost of the wage and benefit adjustments outlined above to be approximately $100 million in 1997. Further, as a result of these changes, the Company expects that its annual Salaries and related costs will increase at a faster rate than its major competitors from now through the year 2000. TENTATIVE AGREEMENT WITH ALPA ON REGIONAL JETS - - ---------------------------------------------- During September 1997, United and ALPA reached a tentative agreement on the issue of regional jets that allows air carriers operating under the United Express program to purchase and fly those jets (with restrictions) and provides job security for United's pilots. The agreement is subject to ratification by ALPA's pilots and the result of the vote is scheduled to be released on November 18. OUTLOOK FOR 1997 - - ---------------- Fourth quarter 1997 available seat miles are expected to grow 4% year over year, with a nearly 7% increase in international markets and 2% in domestic capacity. Year over year traffic growth is expected to be at 3%. With a modest increase in yield, system revenue per available seat mile is expected to increase 2% from last year's fourth quarter. Fourth quarter unit costs excluding the ESOP compensation expense are expected to decrease slightly from last year, assuming a lower average fuel price for the fourth quarter from last year. Assuming a lower average fuel price for the fourth quarter, and a continuing positive airline industry and general economic environment for the fourth quarter, the Company expects fourth quarter 1997 "fully distributed" earnings per share to exceed last year's fourth quarter earnings per share and full year "fully distributed" earnings per share to exceed those for 1996 (see "Results of Operations, Summary of Results" for further explanation of this pro forma methodology). The information included in the previous paragraphs is forward-looking and involves risks and uncertainties that could result in actual results differing materially from expected results. It is not reasonably possible to itemize all of the many factors and specific events that could affect the outlook of an airline operating in the global economy. Some factors that could significantly impact expected capacity, load factors, revenues, unit revenues, unit costs and earnings per share include the airline pricing environment, the effect of the U.S. excise tax on travel, fuel prices, low-fare carrier expansion, the timing of aircraft deliveries by manufacturers, the success of the Company's cost reduction efforts, the cost of safety and security measures, actions of the U.S., foreign and local governments, foreign currency exchange rate fluctuations, the price of UAL common stock, the timing of the Company's common stock repurchase program, inflation, the economic environment of the airline industry, the general economic environment, and other factors discussed herein. PART II. OTHER INFORMATION --------------------------- Item 1. Legal Proceedings. - - ------ ----------------- GEC-Marconi Claim. -- As reported in the Form 10-Q filing for UAL Corporation ("UAL") for the quarter ended June 30, 1997, United Air Lines, Inc. ("United") filed suit on April 4, 1996 in the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, Law Division, against GEC-Marconi Inflight Systems Overseas, Ltd. ("GMIS"), its Boeing 777 inseat video vendor, claiming breach of contract for GMIS's failure to deliver the contracted product in the specified time frame, and seeking monetary and injunctive relief. United also named in the suit GEC-Marconi Inflight Systems, Inc. ("GMIS, Inc."), its 777 video maintenance provider, seeking declaratory relief on the maintenance contract. On July 19, 1996 GMIS and GMIS, Inc. filed a counterclaim against United seeking in excess of $240 million for various alleged breaches of contract by United, plus consequential damages and attorney's fees and costs, relating to the same product purchase agreement (which, in addition, included a Boeing 747 and 767 retrofit order that United terminated on April 4, 1996) and maintenance service agreement which form the basis of United's complaint, as well as an alleged June 1996 "agreement" that had been the subject of negotiations between the parties, but was never signed by United regarding interim arrangements between the parties. GMIS and GMIS, Inc. also sought injunctive relief to enforce the alleged "agreement" and prevent United from obtaining substitute goods from other vendors. On December 23, 1996, United filed an amended complaint, and GMIS filed an amended counterclaim on December 31, 1996. The parties exchanged preliminary discovery documents. Each party subsequently filed a motion to dismiss the respective amended complaint and counterclaim. The court heard oral arguments on both motions to dismiss. On May 12, 1997, GMIS and GMIS, Inc. filed suit in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Illinois against United claiming copyright infringement, misappropriation of trade secrets and unfair competition as a result of United's alleged unlawful copying of certain cable drawings which it then provided to a cable manufacturer. The complaint sought injunctive relief (including the return of any proprietary information), actual, exemplary and punitive damages and attorneys fees. The parties then engaged in comprehensive settlement negotiations. On September 2, 1997, the parties to the state action and the federal action entered into a comprehensive settlement agreement, resulting in the dismissal of both the state and federal actions, and a release of all claims against the parties to the action. The lawsuits have been terminated. Item 6. Exhibits and Reports on Form 8-K. - - ------ -------------------------------- (a) Exhibits A list of exhibits included as part of this Form 10-Q is set forth in an Exhibit Index which immediately precedes such exhibits. (b) Form 8-K dated July 21, 1997 to report a cautionary statement for purposes of the "Safe Harbor for Forward- Looking Statements" provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Form 8-K dated September 18, 1997 to report a press release in which United Air Lines, Inc., the principal subsidiary of registrant, announced changes to travel agent commission structure. Form 8-K dated October 28, 1997 to report a cautionary statement for purposes of the "Safe Harbor for Forward- Looking Statements" provision of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. SIGNATURES - - ---------- Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned thereunto duly authorized. UAL CORPORATION By: /s/ Douglas A. Hacker --------------------- Douglas A. Hacker Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer (principal financial and accounting officer) Dated: November 6, 1997 Exhibit Index ------------- Exhibit No. Description - - ---------- ----------- 10.1 UAL Corporation 1995 Directors Plan, as amended June 26, 1997. 10.2 UAL Corporation Incentive Compensation Plan, as amended September 18, 1997. 10.3 Sixth Amendment to UAL Corporation Employee Stock Ownership Plan, as amended August 11, 1997. 10.4 Sixth Amendment to UAL Corporation Supplemental ESOP, as amended August 11, 1997. 10.5 Employment Agreement between UAL Corporation, United Air Lines, Inc. and Joseph R. O'Gorman. 11 Calculation of Fully Diluted Net Earnings Per Share. 12.1 Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges. 12.2 Computation of Ratio of Earnings to Fixed Charges and Preferred Stock Dividend Requirements. 27 Financial Data Schedule.