Any railroad corporation operating a railroad in this State may acquire, own and operate motor vehicles for the purpose of transporting persons and property over the public highways for hire, subject to the provisions of any law regulating the use of motor vehicles, and also may acquire, own and operate equipment for and engage in aerial transportation. And such railroad corporations may acquire and own the capital stock and securities of corporations organized for or engaged in either of both of the above businesses.
610 ILCS 60/1