Deutsche Bank analyst Michael Linenberg downgraded his ratings on American Airlines Group (AAL), Delta Air Lines (DAL) and United Continental (UAL) to Hold from Buy.

The analyst cut his price target for American to $43 from $60, for Delta to $53 from $64 and for United to $74 from $81. In a world of "heightened" macroeconomic and geopolitical risks, economically-sensitive, high beta stocks such as airlines typically underperform the broader market, Linenberg tells investors in a research note.

The possibility that the current trade dispute between the U.S. and its global partners could become something bigger is problematic for the airline industry's sales growth, the analyst adds. Further, Linenberg argues, the growing trade dispute may cause U.S. companies to reconsider their spending and employment plans, which would adversely impact corporate travel. As a result, the analyst sees "headline risk" and a lack of near-term catalysts for the airline stocks.

He keeps Buy ratings on Alaska Air (ALK), Allegiant Travel (ALGT), JetBlue Airways (JBLU), Southwest Airlines (LUV), Spirit Airlines (SAVE) and SkyWest (SKYW).