GREAT LAKES AVIATION LTD
10-Q, 1997-08-14
AIR TRANSPORTATION, SCHEDULED
Previous: SOUTHWEST BANCORP INC, 10-Q, 1997-08-14
Next: NEUROCRINE BIOSCIENCES INC, 10-Q, 1997-08-14



<PAGE>

                                        
                       SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION 
                             Washington, D.C. 20549
                                        
                                   FORM 10-Q
                                        
                                        
(Mark One) 
/X/ QUARTERLY REPORT PURSUANT TO SECTION 13 OR 15(d) OF THE 
    SECURITIES EXCHANGE ACT OF 1934
                                        
For the quarterly period ended June 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 No. 0-23224
                                        
                            GREAT LAKES AVIATION, LTD.
         -----------------------------------------------------------------
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in its charter)
                                        
                IOWA                                      42-1135319
   -------------------------------                    -------------------
   (State or other jurisdiction of                    (I.R.S. Employer 
    incorporation or organization)                    Identification No.)

          1965 330th Street, Spencer, Iowa 51301
    ---------------------------------------------------
    (Address of principal executive offices)  (Zip Code)


Registrant's telephone number, including area code:  (712)  262-1000

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
                       -------      -------

As of August 12, 1997 there were 7,589,121 shares of Common Stock, par
value $.01 per share, issued and outstanding.


                                       1

<PAGE>


                   GREAT LAKES AVIATION, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARY
                          CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS
                    (in thousands, except share information)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    June 30, 1997     December 31, 1996
                                                                  -----------------  --------------------
                                                                     (unaudited)
<S>                                                                <C>                 <C>
                                ASSETS
CURRENT ASSETS:
     Cash                                                           $       604         $    6,676 
     Accounts Receivable                                                  4,525              7,274 
     Inventories, net of accumulated allowance of
            $3,221  in 1997 and $3,082 in 1996                           12,847             12,668 
     Prepaid expenses and other current assets                            2,280              2,254 
                                                                    -----------         ----------
                                             Total Current Assets        20,256             28,872 
                                                                    -----------         ----------
PROPERTY AND EQUIPMENT:
     Flight Equipment                                                    97,681             98,281 
     Other Property and Equipment                                         4,055              3,863 
     Less - Accumulated Depreciation and Amortization                   (17,165)           (14,901) 
                                                                    -----------         ----------
                                     Total Property and Equipment        84,571             87,243 
OTHER ASSETS                                                              2,349              2,494 
                                                                    -----------         ----------
                                                                     $  107,176         $  118,609 
                                                                    -----------         ----------
                                                                    -----------         ----------

                   LIABILITIES AND STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
CURRENT LIABILITIES:
     Accounts Payable                                                 $  10,689          $  13,089 
     Current Maturities of Long-term Debt                                 6,128              6,668 
     Notes Payable                                                                           5,000 
     Unpaid Debt and Lease Installments
              Major Aircraft Supplier                                    10,399 
              Other                                                       2,428 
     Accrued Liabilities and Unearned Revenue                             3,019              3,512 
                                                                    -----------         ----------
                                        Total Current Liabilities        32,663             28,269 
LONG-TERM DEBT, net of current maturities                                61,740             65,986 
DEFERRED CREDITS                                                          5,636              5,614 

STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY:
     Common stock, $.01 par value; 50,000,000 shares authorized, 
     7,586,354 shares issued and outstanding at June 30, 1997, 
     7,586,326 shares issued and outstanding at December 31, 1996            76                 76
                                                                                                
      Paid-in Capital                                                    28,927             28,920 
     Accumulated Deficit                                                (21,866)           (10,256) 
                                                                    -----------         ----------
                                       Total Stockholders' Equity         7,137             18,740 
                                                                    -----------         ----------
                                                                     $  107,176         $  118,609 
                                                                    -----------         ----------
                                                                    -----------         ----------
</TABLE>

Note:    The Balance Sheet at December 31, 1996 has been derived from
         the audited financial statements as of that date, but does not
         include all of the information and footnotes required by
         generally accepted accounting principles for complete financial
         statements.  See condensed notes to financial statements.

                                       2

<PAGE>


                   GREAT LAKES AVIATION, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARY
                     CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
               FOR THE THREE MONTHS AND SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30

                                  (Unaudited)
             (in thousands, except share and per share information)


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                   For the Three Months Ended June 30      For the Six Months Ended June 30
                                                   ----------------------------------      --------------------------------
                                                          1997            1996                   1997            1996
                                                   ----------------  ----------------      ----------------  --------------
<S>                                                   <C>            <C>                      <C>          <C>
OPERATING REVENUES:
   Passenger                                           $  18,023      $  27,473                $  42,400     $  49,435 
   Public Service                                            918            746                    2,197         1,230 
   Freight, charter and other                                399            495                    1,411         1,190 
                                                       ---------      ---------                ---------     ---------
                       Total operating revenues           19,340         28,714                   46,008        51,855 
                                                       ---------      ---------                ---------     ---------
OPERATING EXPENSES:
   Salaries, wages and benefits                            4,318          6,912                   11,794        13,211 
   Aircraft fuel                                           2,772          4,403                    7,626         8,372 
   Aircraft maintenance materials and repairs              1,351          3,059                    3,775         6,389 
   Commissions                                             1,336          2,111                    3,171         3,752 
   Depreciation and amortization                           1,111          1,369                    2,549         2,824 
   Aircraft rental                                         2,171          2,782                    5,639         5,087 
   Other rentals and landing fees                          1,326          1,776                    3,119         3,502 
   Other operating expenses                                6,101          6,043                   12,655        11,396 
   Shutdown expenses                                       4,217              -                    4,217            -  
                                                       ---------      ---------                ---------     ---------
                       Total operating expenses           24,703         28,455                   54,545        54,533 
                                                       ---------      ---------                ---------     ---------
                        Operating income (loss)          (5,363)            259                  (8,537)       (2,678)
INTEREST EXPENSE (includes $576 of 
interest expense related to grounded aircraft -
 See Note 2.)                                              1,460          1,414                    3,073         2,948 
                                                       ---------      ---------                ---------     ---------
                       Loss before income taxes          (6,823)        (1,155)                 (11,610)       (5,626) 
INCOME TAX EXPENSE (BENEFIT)                                   -              -                       -        (1,698) 
                                                       ---------      ---------                ---------     ---------
                                       Net loss        $ (6,823)      $ (1,155)                $(11,610)     $ (3,928) 
                                                       ---------      ---------                ---------     ---------
                                                       ---------      ---------                ---------     ---------
NET LOSS PER SHARE:                                    $   (.90)      $  (0.15)                $  (1.53)     $  (0.52)
                                                       ---------      ---------                ---------     ---------
                                                       ---------      ---------                ---------     ---------
WEIGHTED AVERAGE SHARES
OUTSTANDING                                            7,589,121      7,586,326                7,588,457     7,584,479
                                                       ---------      ---------                ---------     ---------
                                                       ---------      ---------                ---------     ---------
</TABLE>

          The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
                 are an integral part of these statements.

                                     3


<PAGE>


                   GREAT LAKES AVIATION, LTD. AND SUBSIDIARY
                      CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOW
                        FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30
                                  (Unaudited)
                                 (in thousands)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        1997          1996
                                                                    -----------    ----------
<S>                                                               <C>             <C>
OPERATING ACTIVITIES: 
    Net loss                                                         $ (11,610)    $  (3,928) 
    Adjustments to reconcile net loss to net cash used in
     operating activities
            Depreciation and amortization                                2,872         2,824 
            Deferred income taxes                                            0        (1,698) 
            Change in current operating items:
               Accounts receivable, net                                  2,749          (800) 
               Inventories, net                                           (179)       (1,240) 
               Prepaid expenses and deposits                               (26)         (864) 
               Deposits on flight equipment                                  -           353 
               Unpaid lease installments                                (2,893)
               Accounts payable and accrued liabilities                  4,821         2,062 
                                                                     ----------     ---------
            Net cash flows used in operating activities                 (4,266)       (3,291) 
                                                                     ----------     ---------
INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
   Purchase of property and equipment                                     (192)       (1,365) 
   Sale of property and equipment                                            -        20,789 
   Change in other assets                                                  145          (663)
                                                                     ----------     ---------
    Net cash flows provided by investing activities                        (47)       18,761
                                                                     ----------     ---------
FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
   Proceeds from issuance of debt                                            -         4,000 
   Repayment of debt and accrued interest                               (1,766)      (22,571) 
   Proceeds from sale of common stock                                        7            23 
                                                                     ----------     ---------
   Net cash flows used in financing activities                          (1,759)      (18,548) 
                                                                     ----------     ---------
NET CHANGE IN CASH                                                      (6,072)       (3,078) 
CASH:
   Beginning of Period                                                   6,676         6,785 
                                                                     ----------     ---------
   End of Period                                                        $  604      $  3,707 
                                                                     ----------     ---------
                                                                     ----------     ---------
SUPPLEMENTARY CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
      Cash paid during the year for-
           Interest                                                      1,460         2,952 
                                                                     ----------     ---------
                                                                     ----------     ---------
      Noncash transactions-
            Deferred manufacturer's incentives received as:
                 Property and equipment                                   (200)               
                 Inventory                                                               414 
                                                                     ----------     ---------
                                                                     $    (200)     $    414 
                                                                     ----------     ---------
                                                                     ----------     ---------
             Reclassification of deferred credit relating
                  to cancellation of Embraer Agreement               $       -     $   1,156
                                                                     ----------     ---------
                                                                     ----------     ---------
</TABLE>

          The accompanying notes to consolidated financial statements
                   are an integral part of these statements

                                       4

<PAGE>


                           GREAT LAKES AVIATION, LTD.
                 CONDENSED NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED 
                          INTERIM FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
                                        
                                        
1.   GENERAL

The consolidated financial statements included herein have been prepared by 
the Company, without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the 
Securities and Exchange Commission.  The information furnished in the 
consolidated financial statements includes normal recurring adjustments and 
reflects all adjustments which are, in the opinion of management, necessary 
for a fair presentation of such consolidated financial statements.  The 
Company's business is seasonal and, accordingly, interim results are not 
necessarily indicative of results for a full year.  In addition, financial 
results were significantly affected by temporary suspension of service and 
reduced operating levels during the second quarter of 1997, as described 
below.  Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in 
consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with generally 
accepted accounting principles have been condensed or omitted pursuant to 
such rules and regulations, although the Company believes that the 
disclosures are adequate to make the information presented not misleading.  
It is suggested that these consolidated financial statements be read in 
conjunction with the consolidated financial statements for the year ended 
December 31, 1996 and the notes thereto included in the Company's Annual 
Report on Form 10-K filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission.  The 
forgoing financial statements contain an opinion by the Company's independent 
public accountants indicating substantial doubt as to the Company's ability 
to continue as a going concern.

The consolidated financial statements include the accounts of Great Lakes 
Aviation, Ltd. and its wholly-owned subsidiary (RDU Inc.), referred to 
collectively as the Company.  All significant inter-company transactions and 
balances have been eliminated in consolidation.

During the period the company operated scheduled passenger and air freight 
service under three marketing identities.  In the upper Midwest the Company 
operates under a cooperative marketing agreement (United Express Agreement) 
with United Airlines, Inc. (United).  The Company also serves certain 
destinations in this area as Great Lakes Airlines. 

Along the East Coast, the Company operated as Midway Connection under a 
cooperative marketing agreement with Midway Airlines, Inc. (Midway).  In 
Mexico, Arizona and New Mexico the Company operated as Great Lakes Airlines.  
All of the services provided as Midway Connection and Great Lakes Airlines in 
Mexico, Arizona and New Mexico were terminated effective May 16, 1997.

Revenues during the quarter ended June 30, 1997 were derived 75.5% from 
United Express operations, 14.4% from Midway Connection and  10.1% from Great 
Lakes Airlines operations.

                                       5

<PAGE>

2.   TEMPORARY SUSPENSION OF FLIGHT OPERATIONS AND RELATED EXPENSES

Subsequent to the temporary suspension of flight operations on May 16, 1997, 
the Company incurred continuing operating costs and extraordinary maintenance 
and other expenditures during the shutdown period, which continued after the 
resumption of reduced level of services on May 23, 1997.  These non-revenue 
generating expenses are shown on the statement of operations as shutdown 
expenses.  Shutdown expenses incurred after June 30, 1997 will be reflected 
in the corresponding financial statements. Shutdown expenses consist of 
aircraft lease rentals and depreciation for aircraft not used in scheduled 
service, rental of unused facilities, costs of  non-utilized personnel and 
similar costs as well as expenses related to the extensive FAA review of the 
Company's operations including inspection related costs and unusual 
maintenance costs in excess of normal recurring maintenance.  Such operating 
costs are summarized below:

    Salaries, wages and benefits                      $     1,833,044
    Aircraft maintenance materials and repairs                575,686
    Aircraft depreciation                                     322,824
    Aircraft rental                                           978,715
    Facilities rental                                         198,335
    FAA penalty                                               300,000
    Other expense                                               8,262
                                                      ---------------
                                            Total     $     4,216,866
                                                      ---------------
                                                      ---------------

In addition, the Company incurred interest cost of $575,680 during the period 
related to aircraft not used in scheduled service.  The above costs further 
contributed to the liquidity problems of the Company as discussed below. 

3.  LIQUIDITY AND GOING-CONCERN MATTERS

The Company has suffered recent losses and negative operating cash flows, has 
negative working capital, has been unable to meet significant current and 
long-term financial obligations, and has defaulted on certain financial and 
operating agreements.  These matters have raised substantial doubt about its 
ability to continue as a going concern and, as a result, the Report of 
Independent Public Accountants on the financial statements for the year ended 
December 31, 1996, contains a statement to this effect. The Company's ability 
to continue as a going concern depends upon successfully obtaining additional 
working capital financing, negotiating extended or improved terms under its 
major operating agreement, and ultimately, returning to sustained 
profitability.  The suspension of service on May 16, 1997, and subsequent 
reduced levels of service have resulted in substantial losses and an 
increased need for additional financing. 

Raytheon Aircraft Company and its financing affiliates (collectively, 
"Raytheon") is the company's primary aircraft supplier and largest creditor.  
The Company has financed all 41 of its Beechcraft 1900 aircraft and one of 
its Brasilia aircraft under related lease and debt agreements with Raytheon, 
and Raytheon has also extended the Company a $5 million loan secured by 
accounts receivable (collectively, the "Raytheon Agreements").  The Raytheon 
Agreements went into default in 1997 due to the Company's non-payment of 
scheduled amounts due.  The Raytheon Agreements also contain cross-default 
provisions which may be triggered if the Company's obligations to other 
creditors are accelerated as a result of non-payment of those obligations.  
The default provisions of the Raytheon

                                       6

<PAGE>

Agreements give Raytheon the right to accelerate certain amounts due under 
the Raytheon Agreements or repossess the aircraft or other assets securing 
the Raytheon Agreements. 

On July 16, 1997 the Company reached an agreement with Raytheon pursuant to 
which Raytheon provided  a short term loan of $4 million.  This loan, which 
was originally due on July 29, 1997, has been extended until August 30, 1997 
and may, at the sole option of Raytheon, be extended on a month-to-month 
basis until October 31, 1997.  This loan, as well as existing Raytheon 
indebtedness has been collateralized with all previously unpledged Beech 
aircraft spare parts and equipment.  The agreement also calls for the parties 
to negotiate the terms for the payment of past due amounts to Raytheon 
relating to the first half of 1997 amounting to $10.4 million.  In addition, 
Raytheon was granted warrants for a period of ten years, exercisable 
commencing July 16, 1998, to purchase one million shares of Great Lakes 
common stock at a price of $.75 per share.  As long as the Company is in 
compliance with the July 16, 1997 agreement, all defaults under any other 
financing agreements with Raytheon have been waived.

The Company believes that it will require an additional loan of approximately 
$2.5 million by the end of August 1997 to meet its working capital 
requirements and has requested Raytheon to provide these additional funds.  
Raytheon has not agreed to make this advance and there can be no assurance 
that these funds can be obtained from other sources if Raytheon declines to 
provide them.

In addition to the Raytheon financing, the Company has financed 11 of its 
Brasilia aircraft through five lease and debt agreements with other unrelated 
entities (collectively, the "Brasilia Agreements").  At December 31, 1996, 
one of the Brasilia Agreements under which it operates two of these aircraft 
was in default due to violation of a financial covenant. During 1997, all of 
the Brasilia Agreements went into default due to non-payment of scheduled 
amounts due. 

The Company has executed amendments to four of the Brasilia Agreements which 
reschedule the amounts due.  The fifth agreement under which the Company 
leased two used Embraers for periods ending December 31, 1998, and June 30, 
1999, was terminated by the lessor by the exercise of its rights as a result 
of the default.  These two aircraft have been returned to the lessor. 

The Company continues to have past due trade accounts.  Notes totaling 
approximately $880,000 have been issued to certain of the creditors which, in 
general, require payment over a one year period.   The Company believes that 
it has reached an appropriate accommodation with its key suppliers and that 
it will be able to obtain necessary good and services on acceptable terms as 
long as timely payment is made for current purchases. 

On April 25, 1997, the Company's United Express Agreement with United 
Airlines expired.  Subsequently the term of the Agreement was extended until 
August 31, 1997 while a new agreement is being negotiated.  The Company is in 
default of various covenants in the United Express Agreement as a result of 
its non-payment of bills when due and not maintaining certain financial 
ratios.  Both of these defaults have been waived by United until August 31, 
1997.  The Company has historically earned the majority of its revenues under 
the United Express Agreement.  In exchange for certain per passenger fees, 
the Company receives certain benefits from its relationship with United 
including the listing of its flights under United's computer reservation 
system code.   While management believes that initial 

                                       7

<PAGE>


discussions for a new agreement have been favorable, there can be no 
assurance that such negotiations will be successful or that the existing 
United Express Agreement can be renewed. 

The Company has made substantial revisions to its flight schedules and may 
make further revisions in an effort to improve operating results.  Service in 
the Southeastern United States as Midway Express and in the Southwestern 
United States as Great Lakes Airlines has been terminated. The Company is 
also analyzing opportunities to rationalize its capacity levels, optimize its 
aircraft fleet and mix, and improve the deployment of its capacity.  Further, 
the Company has negotiated improved terms and subsidy rates on certain of its 
routes subsidized by the U.S. Department of Transportation under the 
Essential Air Service program. 

There can be no assurance that the Company's negotiations will be successful 
in obtaining additional working capital financing or improving terms under 
its major operating agreement or that its operational improvement initiatives 
will result in improved operating performance or sustained profitability.  
Such negotiations and initiatives will require the Company to reach 
agreements with Raytheon and United on terms acceptable to the Company, none 
of which are assured.  If the Company is unsuccessful in its efforts, it may 
continue to be unable to meet its current and future obligations, making it 
necessary to undertake such other actions as may be appropriate to preserve 
asset values, potentially including seeking protection from its creditors 
under applicable bankruptcy laws.  The financial statements do not include 
any adjustments relating to the recoverability and classification of asset 
carrying amounts or the amount and classification of liabilities that might 
result should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern. 

4.  NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT

In March 1997, the Financial Accounting Standards board issued Statement of 
Financial Accounting Standards No. 128, "Earnings per Share", (SFAS 128), 
which changes the way companies calculate their earnings per share (EPS).  
SFAS 128 replaces primary EPS with basic EPS.  Basic EPS is computed by 
dividing reported earnings by weighted average shares outstanding, excluding 
potentially dilutive securities.   Fully diluted EPS, termed diluted EPS 
under SFAS 128, is also to be disclosed.  The Company is required to adopt 
SFAS 128 in the first quarter of fiscal 1999, at which time all prior year 
EPS are to be restated in accordance with SFAS 128. 

ITEM 2   

MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION AND ANALYSIS OF FINANCIAL CONDITION AND RESULTS OF
OPERATIONS 
                                        
1.  OVERVIEW

The discussion and analysis in this section and in the notes to the financial 
statements contain  certain forward-looking terminology such as "believes," 
"anticipates," "will," and "intends," or comparable terminology.  Such 
statements are subject to certain risks and uncertainties that could cause 
actual results to differ materially from those projected.  Potential 
purchasers of the Company's securities are cautioned not to place undue 
reliance on such forward-looking statements which are qualified in their 
entirety by the cautions and risks described herein and in other reports 
filed by the Company with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

                                       8

<PAGE>

The Company began providing air charter service in 1979, and has provided 
scheduled passenger service in the Upper Midwest since 1981, along the East 
Coast from October 1995 to May 1997, and in the Southwest and Mexico from 
August 1995 to May 1997.  In April 1992, the Company began operating as a 
United Express carrier under a cooperative marketing agreement with United 
that expired April 25, 1997, but has been extended through August 31, 1997.  
As of June 30, 1997, the Company served 26 destinations in 7 states with 170 
scheduled departures each weekday.

The Company has suffered significant recent losses and negative operating 
cash flows, has negative working-capital, has been unable to meet significant 
current and long-term financial obligations, and has defaulted on certain 
financial and operating agreements.  These matters raise substantial doubt 
about its ability to continue as a going concern.  The Company's ability to 
continue as a going concern depends upon obtaining additional working capital 
financing, negotiating extended or improved terms under its major operating 
agreement, and ultimately, returning to sustained profitability.

2.  TEMPORARY SUSPENSION OF FLIGHT OPERATIONS 
    AND REVISED MARKETING FOCUS                  

On May 16, 1997 following inspections of the Company's operations by the FAA, 
the Company and the FAA entered into an agreement whereby the Company 
voluntarily suspended flight operations pending a thorough review of the 
Company's maintenance and recordkeeping procedures.  On May 23, 1997, the 
Company resumed limited operations at five cities after entering into a 
Consent Order (the "Order") with the FAA.  This Order imposed a civil penalty 
of $1,000,000 of which $300,000 is being paid in installments through June 1 
1998 and $700,000 which will be forgiven if the Company complies with all the 
terms and conditions of the Order.  The Order also required the Company to, 
among other things, inspect each of the Company's aircraft and demonstrate to 
the FAA's satisfaction that the Company has sufficient equipment, qualified 
personnel, manuals, systems, procedures and financial resources to safely 
conduct operations.  

After evaluating the effects of the temporary shutdown, the Company announced 
on June 2, 1997 that it would not resume its Midway Connection Services which 
were previously scheduled to terminate on November 1, 1997. Following this, 
the Company elected not to resume services in Arizona, New Mexico and the 
country of Mexico which it had served under the Great Lakes Airlines 
designation.  Concurrently, the Company rescheduled its United Express 
operations in an effort to achieve profitability. 

The Company has returned to its historical core route structure with primary 
focus being that of the United Express marketing relationship. Within that 
relationship the Company is maximizing its operating advantage at Chicago's 
O'Hare Airport where the Company possesses 74 operating slots and revenue 
passenger yields are highest. A reduced level of service has been reinstated 
at United's Denver hub where revenue passenger yields are lower and the 
majority of its operations receive federal subsidies under the Essential Air 
Service Program.

                                       9

<PAGE>

The Company plans to have its operations fully restored by September 1, 1997 
consistent with the refocused marketing strategy at which time scheduled 
aircraft departures and available seat miles will have been reduced by 33% 
and 37%, respectively from what they would have been under the former 
strategy.  Revenues are expected to decline by a lesser amount.

At the reduced level of service, including planned service increases during 
the last half of 1997, the Company currently has fifteen Beechcraft Model 
1900C and previously had two Brasilia EMB120 aircraft surplus to its 
requirements.  As a result of a default under the agreement under which the 
Company operated two of its Brasilias, the lessor terminated the lease and 
has taken back its aircraft.  The Company is currently negotiating with 
several aircraft operators to sublease to them the surplus 1900C aircraft.  
Losses, if any, to be incurred as a result of such dispositions are 
indeterminable at this time.

3.  ESSENTIAL AIR SERVICE 

Under the Essential Air Service Program, which is administered by the U.S. 
Department of Transportation (DOT), certain communities receive specified 
levels of "essential air service" (EAS).  The DOT may authorize federal 
subsidies to compensate a carrier providing essential air service in 
otherwise unprofitable or minimally profitable markets.  Under the FAA 
Reauthorization Act of 1996, beginning in October 1997, the program will be 
funded on an ongoing basis from foreign air carrier overfly fees.  If these 
subsidies are reduced or eliminated in the future the Company may discontinue 
service to some or all of the subsidized communities.

At June 30, 1997 and December 31, 1996, the Company served 4 and 18 essential 
air service communities, respectively, on a subsidized basis. At the time the 
Company's operations are fully restored, the Company expects to serve 21 
cities on a subsidized basis.  The Company received $2.2 and $3.5 million in 
essential air service subsidies for the six months ended June 30, 1997 and 
the year ended December 31, 1996, respectively.  An airline serving a 
community that qualifies for essential air services is required to give the 
DOT advance notice before it may terminate, suspend or reduce service.  
Depending on the circumstances, the DOT may require the continuation of 
existing service (even if such service is being operated at a loss) until a 
replacement carrier is found.

Consistent with current DOT service limits, aircraft departures in subsidized 
service in 1997 are expected to be slightly below those in 1996.  However, 
through renegotiation  of rates and modifications in service, the Company 
expects to receive an increase of approximately $2.5 million in subsidy 
revenues from providing such service in 1997. Negotiations were completed 
during the quarter with DOT to establish rates which will recognize increased 
flight frequencies for subsidy support.

                                      10

<PAGE>

4.  RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE THREE MONTHS ENDED 
    JUNE 30, 1997 AND 1996

The following table sets forth certain financial information regarding the
Company:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA
                                                            For the Three Months Ended June 30
                                        ---------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                           1997                              1996
                                        ---------------------------------------    --------------------------
                                                           Cents     % Increase                       Cents
                                           Amount           Per      (decrease)        Amount          Per
                                         (in 000s)          ASM       from 1996      (in 000s)         ASM
                                        ------------------------     ----------     ----------      ---------
<S>                                    <C>             <C>             <C>         <C>             <C>
TOTAL OPERATING REVENUES                $  19,340                        (32.6)%     $  28,714 
                                        ---------                    ----------     ----------
Salaries, Wages and Benefits                4,318       4.4CENTS         (37.5)          6,912       4.0CENTS
Aircraft Fuel                               2,772            2.9         (37.0)          4,403            2.5
Aircraft Maintenance
   Materials and Repairs                    1,351            1.4         (55.8)          3,059            1.7
Commissions                                 1,336            1.4         (36.7)          2,111            1.2
Depreciation and Amortization               1,111            1.1         (18.8)          1,369            0.8
Aircraft Rental                             2,171            2.2         (22.0)          2,782            1.6
Other Rentals and Landing Fees              1,326            1.4         (25.3)          1,776            1.0
Other Operating Expense                     6,101            6.3            1.0          6,043            3.5
Shutdown expenses                           4,217            4.3              -              -              -
                                        ---------      ---------                    ----------       ---------
   Total Operating Expense                 24,703      25.4CENTS         (11.2)%        28,455           16.3
                                        ---------                                   ----------       ---------
Operating Income (Loss)                 $ (5,363)                                       $  259 
                                        ---------                                   ----------
                                        ---------                                   ----------
Interest Expense (net)                   $  1,460       1.5CENTS         (37.5)%      $  1,414       0.8CENTS
                                        ---------      ---------      ---------     ----------       --------
                                        ---------      ---------      ---------     ----------       --------
</TABLE>

SELECTED OPERATING DATA                            Increase/ (Decrease)
                                                   --------------------
                                           1997         from 1996        1996
                                        ---------      ----------     ----------
Available Seat Miles (000s)                97,193         (44.4)%        174,900
Revenue Passenger Miles (000s)             43,887         (44.4)%         78,981
Passenger Load Factor                       45.2%       No Change          45.2%
Passengers carried (000s)                 152,095         (43.5)%        269,203
Average Yield per Revenue passenger     41.1CENTS        6.3CENTS      34.8CENTS
         mile


                                      11

<PAGE>

OPERATING REVENUES

Operating revenues decreased 32.6% to $19.3 million in the second quarter of 
1997 from $28.7 million during the second quarter of 1996.  The decrease in 
operating revenues resulted from the decrease in revenue passenger miles 
flown by 44.4% to 43.9 million in the second quarter of 1997 from 79.0 
million  during the second quarter of 1996 in conjunction with a 44.4% 
decrease in capacity to 97.2 million ASMs in the second quarter of 1997 from 
174.9 million ASMs during the second quarter of 1996. The 32.6% decrease in 
operating revenue was not as sharp as the decrease in capacity and revenue 
passenger miles flown due to a 6.3 cents increase in yield to 41.1 cents in 
the second quarter of 1997 from 34.8 cents during the second quarter of 1996. 
The increase in passenger yield is due to the higher percentage of the 
Company's capacity having been focused on the higher yield Chicago O'Hare hub.

OPERATING EXPENSES

Total operating expenses decreased to $24.7 million, or 25.4 cents per ASM, 
in the second quarter of 1997 from $28.5 million, or 16.3 cents per ASM in 
the second quarter of 1996.  The increase in cost per ASM reflects the costs 
associated with the voluntary shutdown and the decrease in ASMs due to the 
shutdown.

Salaries, wages, and benefits expense increased to 4.4 cents per ASM during 
the second quarter of 1997, from 4.0 cents per ASM during the second quarter 
of 1996, due to normal pay increases and a smaller ASM base across which to 
spread fixed labor.

Aircraft fuel expense per ASM increased to 2.9 cents in the second quarter of 
1997 from 2.5 cents in the second quarter of 1996 due to higher fuel prices, 
which began rising dramatically in the fall of 1996 and subsequently dropped 
in the spring of 1997, however, the cost did not return to the level of the 
second quarter of 1996.

Maintenance materials and repairs expense decreased to 1.4 cents per ASM 
during the second quarter of 1997 from 1.7 cents per ASM during the second 
quarter of 1996.  This is mainly due to a decrease in the number of engine 
overhauls performed from five during the second quarter of 1996 to two during 
the second quarter of 1997.

Other operating expenses increased to 6.3 cents per ASM in the second quarter 
of 1997 from 3.5 cents in the second quarter of 1996, reflecting higher 
general and administrative, marketing, communications, supplies, and contract 
airline handling costs spread across a lower ASM base.

PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES

The Company's effective tax rate was 0 percent in the second quarter of 1997 
and 0 percent in the second quarter of 1996.  In recognition of the Company's 
financial results of recent periods and the uncertainties of the airline 
competitive environment, the Company has elected to cease recognizing future 
tax benefits until it is reasonably assured that such benefits will be 
realized. 

                                      12

<PAGE>

5.  RESULTS OF OPERATIONS FOR THE SIX MONTHS ENDED JUNE 30, 1996

The following table sets forth certain financial information regarding the
Company:

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS DATA

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                           For the Six Months Ended June 30
                                                       ---------------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                          1997                             1996
                                                       ---------------------------------------    --------------------------
                                                                         Cents     % Increase                         Cents
                                                         Amount           Per      (decrease)        Amount            Per
                                                       (in 000s)          ASM      from 1996        (in 000s)          ASM
                                                       ---------------------------------------    --------------------------
<S>                                                   <C>            <C>             <C>         <C>              <C>   
TOTAL OPERATING REVENUES                               $  46,008                       (11.3)%     $  51,855 
                                                       ---------                                  ----------
Salaries, Wages and Benefits                              11 794       4.7CENTS         (10.7)         13,211       4.0CENTS
Aircraft Fuel                                              7,626            3.0          (8.9)          8,372            2.6
Aircraft Maintenance
   Materials and Repairs                                   3,775            1.5         (40.9)          6,389            2.0
Commissions                                                3,171            1.3         (15.5)          3,752            1.1
Depreciation and Amortization                              2,549            1.0          (9.7)          2,824            0.9
Aircraft Rental                                            5,639            2.2           10.9          5,087            1.6
Other Rentals and Landing Fees                             3,119            1.2         (10.9)          3,502            1.1
Other Operating Expense                                   12,655            5.0           11.0         11,396            3.4
Shutdown expenses                                          4,217            1.7                          --              --
                                                       ---------      ---------                    ----------       --------
   Total Operating Expense                                54,545      21.6CENTS                        54,533           16.7
                                                       ---------      ---------                    ----------       --------
Operating Loss                                         $ (8,537)                                   $  (2,678)
                                                       ---------                                   ----------
                                                       ---------                                   ----------
Interest Expense (net)                                 $   3,073       1.2CENTS           4.2%       $  2,948       0.9CENTS
                                                       ---------      ---------        -------     ----------       --------
                                                       ---------      ---------        -------     ----------       --------
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

SELECTED OPERATING DATA
                                                                  INCREASE/(DECREASE)
                                                          1997        FROM 1996        1996
                                                      ----------     ----------     ----------
<S>                                                 <C>             <C>            <C>
Available seat miles (000s)                              252,231        (22.8)%        326,849
Revenue passenger  miles (000s)                          107,920        (25.5)%        144,919
Passenger load factor                                      42.8%      (1.5)pts.          44.3%
Passengers carried (000s)                                364,106        (25.8)%        490,432
Average yield per revenue passenger mile               39.3CENTS       5.2CENTS      34.1CENTS

</TABLE>

                                      13

<PAGE>

OPERATING REVENUES

Operating revenues decreased 11.3 percent to $46.0 million in the first half 
of 1997 from $51.9 million during the first half of 1996.  The decrease in 
operating revenues resulted from the decrease in revenue passenger miles 
flown by 25.5 % to 107.9 million in the first half of 1997 from 144.9 million 
during the first half of 1996 in conjunction with a 22.8% decrease in 
capacity to 252.2 million ASMs in the first half of 1997 from 326.8 million 
ASMs during the first half of 1996.  The 11.3% decrease in operating revenues 
was not as sharp as the 25.5% decrease in revenue passenger miles flown due 
to a 5.2 cent increase in yield to 39.3 cents in the first half of 1997 from 
34.1 cents in the first half of 1996.  The increase in passenger yield is due 
primarily to selected price increases in key markets, moving service from 
lower yield markets to higher yield markets, and due to a strong emphasis on 
managing advanced passenger bookings.  In addition, public service revenue 
increased 78.6% to $2.2 million in the first half of 1997 from $1.2 million 
in the first half of 1996. 

OPERATING EXPENSES

Total operating expenses remained unchanged from the first half of 1996 to 
the first half of 1997 at $54.5 million.  Total operating expenses increased 
to 21.6 cents per ASM in the first half of 1997 from or 16.7 cents per ASM in 
the first half of 1996. Reflecting the costs associated with the voluntary 
shutdown and the decrease in ASMs, except as detailed below. 

Salaries, wages, and benefits expense increased to 4.7 cents per ASM during 
the first half of 1997, from 4.0 cents per ASM during the first half of 1996, 
due to normal pay increases, increases in maintenance and customer service 
payroll, increased health insurance claims expense in the first quarter of 
1997, and a smaller ASM base across which to spread fixed labor costs. 

Aircraft fuel expense per ASM increased to 3.0 cents in the first half of 
1997 from 2.6 cents in the first half of 1996 due to higher fuel prices. 

Maintenance materials and repairs expense decreased to 1.5 cents per ASM 
during the first half of 1997, from 2.0 cents per ASM in the first half of 
1996, due to nine fewer engine overhauls performed in the first half of 1997 
compared with the first half of 1996.

Other operating expenses increased to 5.0 cents per ASM in the first half of 
1997 from 3.4 cents per ASM in the first half of 1996, reflecting higher 
passenger booking fees due to increases in rates and higher credit card 
expenses for the Midway Connection and Great Lakes Airlines operations.  
Airline supplies (deicing fluid) and interrupted trip expense also increased 
in early 1997 versus early 1996 due to the increase in weather related flight 
irregularities.  Also, fixed expenses including general and administrative, 
marketing , and communications are spread across a lower ASM base in the 
first half of 1997.

PROVISION FOR INCOME TAXES

The Company's effective tax rate was 0 percent in the first half of 1997 and 
30.0 percent in the first half  of 1996.  In recognition of the Company's 
financial results of recent periods and the uncertainties of the airline 
competitive environment, in the second quarter of 1996, the Company elected 
to cease recognizing future tax benefits until it is reasonably assured that 
such benefits will be realized. 

                                      14

<PAGE>

LIQUIDITY AND CAPITAL RESOURCES

Cash decreased $6.1 million to $ .6 million at June 30, 1997 from $6.7 
million at December 31, 1996.  Net cash flows used in operating activities 
were $4.3 million and $3.3 million in the first half of 1997 and 1996, 
respectively.  The major use of such cash flows in the first half of 1997 was 
the funding of the Company's $11.6 million loss offset by the deferral of 
lease payments of $4.8 million.  

The Company has suffered recent losses and negative operating cash flows, has 
negative working capital, has been unable to meet significant current and 
long-term financial obligations, and has defaulted on certain financial and 
operating agreements.  These matters have raised substantial doubt about its 
ability to continue as a going concern and, as a result, the Report of 
Independent Public Accountants on the financial statements for the year ended 
December 31, 1996, contains a statement to this effect. The Company's ability 
to continue as a going concern depends upon successfully obtaining additional 
working capital financing, negotiating extended or improved terms under its 
major operating agreement, and ultimately, returning to sustained 
profitability.  The suspension of service on May 16, 1997, and subsequent 
reduced levels of service have resulted in substantial losses and an 
increased need for additional financing. 

Raytheon Aircraft Company and its financing affiliates (collectively, 
"Raytheon") is the company's primary aircraft supplier and largest creditor.  
The Company has financed all 41 of its Beechcraft 1900 aircraft and one of 
its Brasilia aircraft under related lease and debt agreements with Raytheon, 
and Raytheon has also extended the Company a $5 million loan secured by 
accounts receivable (collectively, the "Raytheon Agreements").  The Raytheon 
Agreements went into default in 1997 due to the Company's non-payment of 
scheduled amounts due.  The Raytheon Agreements also contain cross-default 
provisions which may be triggered if the Company's obligations to other 
creditors are accelerated as a result of non-payment of those obligations.   
The default provisions of the Raytheon Agreements give Raytheon the right to 
accelerate certain amounts due under the Raytheon Agreements or repossess the 
aircraft or other assets securing the Raytheon Agreements. 

On July 16, 1997 the Company reached an agreement with Raytheon pursuant to 
which Raytheon provided  a short term loan of $4 million.  This loan, which 
was originally due on July 29, 1997, has been extended until August 30, 1997 
and may, at the sole option of Raytheon, be extended on a month-to-month 
basis until October 31, 1997.  This loan, as well as existing Raytheon 
indebtedness has been collateralized with all previously unpledged Beech 
aircraft spare parts and equipment.  The agreement also calls for the parties 
to negotiate the terms for the payment of past due amounts to Raytheon 
relating to the first half of 1997 amounting to $10.4 million.  In addition, 
Raytheon was granted warrants for a period of ten years, exercisable 
commencing July 16, 1998, to purchase one million shares of Great Lakes 
common stock at a price of $.75 per share.  As long as the Company is in 
compliance with the July 16, 1997 agreement, all defaults under any other 
financing agreements with Raytheon have been waived.

The Company believes that it will require additional working capital of 
approximately $2.5 million by the end of August 1997 to meet its working 
capital requirements and has requested Raytheon to provide these additional 
funds.  Raytheon is considering this request, however, there can be no 
assurance that these funds can be obtained from other sources if Raytheon 
declines to provide them.

                                      15

<PAGE>

In addition to the Raytheon financing, the Company has financed 11 of its 
Brasilia aircraft through five lease and debt agreements with other unrelated 
entities (collectively, the "Brasilia Agreements").  At December 31, 1996, 
one of the Brasilia Agreements under which it operates two of these aircraft 
was in default due to violation of a financial covenant. During 1997, all of 
the Brasilia Agreements went into default due to non-payment of scheduled 
amounts due. 

The Company has executed amendments to four of the Brasilia Agreements which 
reschedules the amounts due.  The fifth agreement under which the Company 
leased two used Embraers for periods ending December 31, 1998, and June 30, 
1999, was terminated by the lessor by the exercise of its rights as a result 
of the default.  These two aircraft have been returned to the lessor. 

The Company continues to have past due trade accounts.  Notes totaling 
approximately $880,000 have been issued to certain of the creditors which, in 
general, require payment over a one year period.   The Company believes that 
it has reached an appropriate accommodation with its key suppliers and that 
it will be able to obtain necessary goods and services on acceptable terms as 
long as timely payment is made for current purchases. 

On April 25, 1997, the Company's United Express Agreement with United 
Airlines expired.  Subsequently, the term of the Agreement was extended until 
August 31, 1997 while a new agreement is being negotiated.  The Company is in 
default of various covenants in the United Express Agreement as a result of 
its non-payment of bills when due and not maintaining a specified financial 
ratio.  Both of these defaults have been waived by United until August 31, 
1997.  The Company has historically earned the majority of its revenues under 
the United Express Agreement and has elected to operate exclusively as United 
Express at the time the new agreement is completed.  In exchange for certain 
per passenger fees, the Company receives certain benefits from its 
relationship with United including the listing of its flights under United's 
computer reservation system code.   While management believes that initial 
discussions for a new agreement have been favorable, there can be no 
assurance that such negotiations will be successful or that the existing 
United Express Agreement can be renewed. 

The Company has made substantial revisions to its flight schedules and may 
make further revisions in an effort to improve operating results.  Service in 
the Southeastern United States as Midway Express and in the Southwestern 
United States as Great Lakes Airlines has been terminated. The Company is 
also analyzing opportunities to rationalize its capacity levels, reduce its 
aircraft fleet, and improve the deployment of its capacity.  Further, the 
Company has negotiated improved terms and subsidy rates on certain of its 
routes subsidized by the U.S. Department of Transportation under the 
Essential Air Service program. 

There can be no assurance that the Company's negotiations will be successful 
in obtaining additional working capital financing or improving terms under 
its major operating agreement or that its operational improvement initiatives 
will result in improved operating performance or sustained profitability.  
Such negotiations and initiatives will require the Company to reach 
agreements with Raytheon and United on terms acceptable to the Company, none 
of which are assured.  If the Company is unsuccessful in its efforts, it may 
continue to be unable to meet its current and future obligations, making it 
necessary to undertake such other actions as may be appropriate to preserve 
asset values, potentially including seeking protection from its creditors 
under applicable bankruptcy laws.  The financial statements do not include 
any adjustments relating to the recoverability and classification of 

                                      16

<PAGE>

asset carrying amounts or the amount and classification of liabilities that
might result should the Company be unable to continue as a going concern. 

In October 1996, the Company entered into an agreement with a vendor in which 
$1.8 million of outstanding invoices were converted into a short-term 
promissory note bearing interest of prime plus 1%. On March 12, 1997, the 
Company sold five spare engines to this vendor in consideration of a $950,000 
reduction of its short-term note. 

Capital expenditures related to aircraft and equipment totaled $192,000 in 
the first half of 1997 and $1.4 million during the first half of 1996. 
Principal repayments and new long-term borrowing were minimal in the first 
half of 1997.  Principal repayments exceeded long-term borrowings by $18.6 
million in the first half of 1996.   Total unpaid debt and lease installments 
totaled $12.8 million at June 30, 1997, including $10.4 million to a major 
aircraft supplier as discussed above. 

Long-term debt, net of current maturities of $6.1 million, totaled $61.7 
million at June 30, 1997 compared to $66.0 million, net of current maturities 
of $6.7 million, at December 31, 1996. 

ITEM 5

NASDAQ LISTING

The Company's Common Stock is currently listed for trading on the NASDAQ 
National Market System.  Under applicable NASDAQ listing standards, the 
Company is required to have two independent directors.  One of the Company's 
current independent directors, Luigi Talarico, Jr. has submitted his 
resignation effective as of August 14, 1997, and the Company has not 
nominated a successor independent director to stand for election at the 
Company's 1997 annual meeting of shareholders.  NASDAQ has notified the 
Company that its shares of Common Stock are subject to delisting if a second 
independent director is not elected by August 22, 1997.  The Company is 
currently considering three candidates for the second independent director 
and will elect this director by August 22, 1997.  If a second director is not 
elected by August 22, 1997, the shares of the Company's Common Stock could be 
delisted by NASDAQ, which could result in a substantial reduction in the 
liquidity of an investment in the Company's Common Stock.

                                      17

<PAGE>


ITEM 6

EXHIBITS AND REPORTS ON FORM 8-K

    a)   No exhibits are filed herewith. 

    b)  On May 30, 1997, the Company filed Form 8-K reporting matters
        relating to the limited resumption of service and filed a copy of the
        Consent Order entered into with the FAA on May 23, 1997. 

    c)  On June 10, 1997, the Company filed Form 8-K reporting matters
        relating to the termination of its marketing arrangements with Midway
        Airlines. 

    d)  On June 12, 1997, the Company filed Form 8-K reporting matters
        relating to certain personnel changes. 



                                   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, thereunder duly authorized. 
 
                                         GREAT LAKES AVIATION, LTD. 



Dated:  August 14, 1997                  By   /s/ Douglas G. Voss
                                           -------------------------------------
                                           Douglas G. Voss
                                           President and Chief Executive Officer


                                         By   /s/ Steven J. Wagner
                                           -------------------------------------
                                           Steven J. Wagner
                                           Vice President and
                                              Chief Accounting Officer
                                            

                                      18


<TABLE> <S> <C>

<PAGE>
<ARTICLE> 5
<MULTIPLIER> 1,000
       
<S>                             <C>
<PERIOD-TYPE>                   6-MOS
<FISCAL-YEAR-END>                          DEC-31-1997
<PERIOD-START>                             JAN-01-1997
<PERIOD-END>                               JUN-30-1997
<CASH>                                             604
<SECURITIES>                                         0
<RECEIVABLES>                                    4,525
<ALLOWANCES>                                         0
<INVENTORY>                                     12,847
<CURRENT-ASSETS>                                20,256
<PP&E>                                         101,736
<DEPRECIATION>                                (17,165)
<TOTAL-ASSETS>                                 107,176
<CURRENT-LIABILITIES>                           32,663
<BONDS>                                              0
                                0
                                          0
<COMMON>                                            76
<OTHER-SE>                                      28,927
<TOTAL-LIABILITY-AND-EQUITY>                   107,176
<SALES>                                         46,008
<TOTAL-REVENUES>                                46,008
<CGS>                                                0
<TOTAL-COSTS>                                        0
<OTHER-EXPENSES>                                54,545
<LOSS-PROVISION>                                     0
<INTEREST-EXPENSE>                               3,073
<INCOME-PRETAX>                               (11,610)
<INCOME-TAX>                                         0
<INCOME-CONTINUING>                           (11,610)
<DISCONTINUED>                                       0
<EXTRAORDINARY>                                      0
<CHANGES>                                            0
<NET-INCOME>                                  (11,610)
<EPS-PRIMARY>                                   (1.53)
<EPS-DILUTED>                                        0
        

</TABLE>


© 2022 IncJournal is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission