United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby: The Strategy Behind the Airline’s Pandemic Bet

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby: The Strategy Behind the Airline’s Pandemic Bet

May 4, 2026 · 23 min · Episode 19

About this episode

Scott Kirby discusses his leadership decisions at United Airlines during the pandemic and the strategic aircraft order he made.

When Scott Kirby took the helm of United Airlines in May 2020, he faced a global pandemic that brought travel to a standstill. Instead of shrinking the company, he placed a bet on a full recovery by making the largest aircraft order in United's history. Kirby shares his candid leadership lessons, from learning from past management mistakes to empowering his frontline workers. Recorded on April 28, 2026.

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