Republic Airways said to plan IPO, 4 years after bankruptcy exit

Republic Airways, which operates regional flights for the three largest US carriers, is exploring going public as soon as this year, according to people with knowledge of the matter. The company is working with underwriters including Raymond James Financial Inc. as it prepares for an IPO as soon as Q3, the people said. Its targeted valuation couldn’t immediately be learned. Founded in 1974, Indianapolis-based Republic is led by CEO Bryan Bedford. It operates flights through fixed-fee agreements for American Airlines Group, Delta, and United under the brands American Eagle, Delta Connection, and United Express, its website shows. With a fleet of more than 220 Embraer SA planes, the company ferries passengers from small and mid-sized cities to major airport hubs where they often catch other flights. It emerged from a bankruptcy restructuring in April 2017, with ownership stakes totaling 61% at that time held by American, Delta and United.<br/>