They didn't want to make the statement, but someone on the AA Bankruptcy Creditor's Committee is trying to deny poor Horton his $20Million.

That's why AA is now trying to justify it. (from the article)

"After the merger is completed, Horton will be replaced by US Airways Chief Executive Doug Parker and will take the post of board chairman for the new airline.

But the trustee overseeing the bankruptcy objected to the payout, saying that bankruptcy code requires the airline to first explain why it is making sweeping changes to its payment policies."