Interview: United President Scott Kirby
United Airlines President Scott Kirby issued a warning to potential new-entrant low-cost-carriers, including JetBlue founder David Neeleman’s Moxie: United will match your fares.
Kirby, speaking on stage at Skift Forum Asia in Singapore in June, said he’s heard of about 50 airlines over the years that were supposed to be created but Virgin America, founded in 2004, was the last startup airline in the United States that actually became a reality.
The low-cost airline model is predicated on the competition not matching prices, Kirby said, and unlike the situation over the last 30 years, United now has the capabilities with segmentation, including basic economy, to go tit-for-tat with the new entrants.
Listen for the full interview with Skift Editor-in-Chief Tom Lowry.
Apple Podcasts | Spotify | YouTube | RSS
Up Next
The U.S. Airlines Growing and Shrinking in 2025
What Does 2025 Mean for the Airline Industry?
In this week’s episode, Gordon Smith and Jay Shabat turn their attention to the year ahead. Going region-by-region, the pair share the emerging stories that are on their radar for 2025 and beyond.
The Biggest Airline Trends of 2024 (Part Two)
In this week’s episode, Gordon Smith and Jay Shabat are back for the second half of their 2024 trends countdown. Hot topics include the impact of a strong U.S. Dollar and chronic supply chain issues.
The Biggest Airline Trends of 2024 (Part One)
In this week’s episode, Gordon Smith and Jay Shabat discuss the biggest trends to have shaped the airline sector in 2024. From continued consolidation to a horror show for U.S. LCCs, we reflect on a fascinating year for the industry.
