United CEO Says U.S. Airline Industry Unprepared for Post-Pandemic Realities
Photo Caption: United CEO Scott Kirby says other airlines need to acknowledge the industry's post-Covid constraints. Denver International Airport
Skift Take
United CEO Scott Kirby says woe to the airline that thinks it can operate like it did before the pandemic.
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby came out swinging with a stinging critique of the U.S. aviation system on Wednesday. Despite what he views as profound structural changes during the past four years, other players are in "denial" and failing to accept these changes — to the detriment of travelers and the entire industry.
The changes in question are fundamental to running an airline. Staffing tops the list as the U.S. pilot shortage, or captain shortage, continues to plague regional airlines, and everything from maintenance technicians to air traffic controllers remain in short supply. Technology is inadequate and not up to the challenge of the regular disruptions, like weather, that impact the industry. Delays building and delivering new planes at Airbus and Boeing are limits on growth. And, in a nod to investors, costs are permanently higher than they were in 2019.
"You can’t run your airline like it’s 2019 or you will fail," Kirby said during United's four
