Divide into groups. Assume your group is analyzing the fate of the larger airlines, such as United and American. You have the following information:

a. Between 1999 and now, the long-term debt, including lease obligations, of the largest airlines more than doubled.

b. The price of fuel has increased by one-third.

c. Passenger loads are only now getting back to pre-9/11 levels.

d. Severe price competition from discount airlines exists.

Identify the ratios that you consider most important to consider in assessing the future of the large airlines and discuss the effect of each of the above factors on the ratios. Be prepared to present all or part of your findings in class.