[QUOTE=calmwinds;2655399]"The republic - trans states rumor is pretty old and predates the Mesa IPO by months. The fact the IPO at $12 per share still went forward shows that whatever the intent of the IPO by Mesa management still existed last Thursday, or the IPO would have been withdrawn. Mesa needs the cash for a reason and it still existed last week.

Rumors are a dime a dozen in the airline business (until they happen). Remember, United was rumored to be buying ExpressJet from SkyWest in Fortune earlier this year. There are even rumors out there that American would continue to increase its ownership stake in Mesa after the IPO to a controlling stake. I think it is easier to buy lotto tickets than believe airline business"

First, out of pure curiosity, how exactly old is this republic-trans states rumor? Would you happen to have any evidence, perhaps any speculation of it that you could share?