Who’s going to run a merged American Airlines and US Airways?

AMR CEO  Tom Horton is in talks about becoming board chairman if American Airlines parent merges with US Airways, one of a number of signs both companies are nearing a deal that could create the world’s largest airline by traffic….He could become a vice chairman, senior adviser, take on another role or choose to retire, some of the people said.

Doug Parker, US Airways’ chairman and CEO, is widely seen as the person who would run the combined airline as CEO…The outcome of the discussions is crucial for Mr. Horton, 51 years old, who could be left without a job if the airlines merge. It appears Mr. Parker has the inside track.

Scott Kirby, US Airways’ president, appears poised to take the No. 2 management role should the airlines combine.