United Airlines CEO Kirby: Pandemic Success and Transformative Bets

United Airlines’ CEO, Scott Kirby, recently highlighted the airline’s strategic decisions during the pandemic in a meeting with the media, employees, and government officials in Houston. Kirby expressed confidence in United’s unique approach, declaring them as the only airline globally to get COVID right by anticipating the eventual return of travel despite the challenges.

In describing United’s current state, Kirby likened the airline to a “three-year-old startup embedded in a 98-year-old airline,” suggesting a transformative rebirth during the pandemic. He emphasized the airline’s wise choice not to retire airplanes and reduce its fleet, contrasting it with other industry players.

Kirby asserted that United’s bold decisions, including significant fleet expansion through a new purchase order, set them apart. He believes that betting on the fleet, along with strategic investments in select airports and lounges, positions United as a standout player in the industry.

While acknowledging their achievements, Kirby remains humble, stating, “I think we’re the best but there are many things we can still do better.” He goes further to claim that United is not just the best airline in current aviation history but is poised to enter a league of its own.