American Airlines could acquire a stake in state - owned China Southern Airlines , as talks between the two companies prompted a 5.3 % rise in the airline 's Hong Kong - traded shares . China Southern is the country 's largest carrier by revenue , and the government is seeking ways to encourage strong growth in outbound Chinese travel , as well as make good on its vow to shake up its airlines with the help of private capital and strategic investment . In 2015 , Delta Air Lines bought 3.55 % of China Eastern Airlines for $ 450 m .
American Airlines could acquire a stake in state-owned China Southern Airlines, as talks between the two companies prompted a 5.3% rise in the latter's Hong Kong-traded shares. China Southern is the country's largest carrier by numbers, and the government is seeking ways to exploit strong growth in outbound Chinese travel, as well as make good on its vow to shake up its airlines with the injection of private capital and strategic investment. In 2015, Delta Air Lines bought 3.55% of China Eastern Airlines for $450m.