United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby extended an olive branch to President-Elect Trump, congratulating him on his “historic victory” and wishing him success. Kirby also pledged support for the Administration in helping to use the federal government to promote economic growth.
United Airlines CEO Sends Letter To President-Elect Trump
Here’s the letter in full:
November 6, 2024
President Donald Trump & Vice President-elect JD Vance
Office of the Presidential Transition
1100 S Ocean Blvd. Palm Beach, FL 33480Dear President Trump and Vice President-elect Vance:
On behalf of United Airlines, I extend my congratulations to you on your historic victory. I wish you and your incoming Administration success in addressing our nation’s vital needs.
Over the course of the campaign, you have expressed optimism towards the next chapter of our American story. We could not agree more. United is a proud American company. As the largest airline in the world, we fly to all corners of the globe and represent the United States everywhere we fly. Our dynamic workforce of over 100,000 is made up of people from all 50 states and all walks of life. We provide lasting careers with industry leading wages and benefits for people and families across the economic spectrum. Our extensive network is not just good for United and our customers – our presence brings new economic growth and career opportunities to communities large and small, all across America.
United’s optimism for the future is reflected in our continued investments in the American economy and infrastructure. Since 2021, we have invested more than $32 billion back into our business, including the largest aircraft order in commercial aviation history. And more is on the way. We are creating the biggest, best and most innovative airline ever, and as such, a powerful engine of economic growth and job creation across the U.S. economy. I look forward to participating in this journey with you and your Administration.
As your focus turns to policies and personnel, I ask you to consider the role the federal government plays in realizing this vision for economic growth. For example, urgent improvements to the nation’s air traffic control infrastructure (including investments in people, facilities and technology) are central to enabling, instead of hindering, economic growth and customer service delivery. We at United stand ready to help you and your team achieve this success.
In closing, I was inspired by the promise of America’s greatness after spending time recently with the cadets at my alma mater, the United States Air Force Academy. For me, these brave young men and women serve as a living example that the United States is the greatest country in history. With that front of mind, I look forward to working with you and your team.
Sincerely,
Scott
The heart of this letter is trying to warm up to Trump so that he is more open to supporting upgrades and other improvements to the nation’s air traffic control (ATC) infrastructure. Updated technology, new facilities, and more people are needed to avoid the sort of self-induced slowdowns that snarl air traffic in busy corridors and disrupt airline operations. United has an acute AT problem at Newark Liberty International Airport, one of its fortress hubs.
Trump’s strong victory suggests a mandate and it is not surprising that Kirby wants to capture the moment to advance his own agenda. In this case, though, the agenda of Kirby aligns with the best interests of other airlines and consumers: updating our air traffic control infrastructure is a vital need that I too hope the incoming administration will not overlook.
What are your thoughts on Kirby’s letter to Trump and Vance?
