Exclusive Interview with Vasu Raja, Former CCO of American Airlines

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We’re bringing you a bonus episode featuring an exclusive interview with former American Airlines Chief Commercial Officer Vasu Raja.

Raja left American earlier this year after two years in the role and 20 years at the airline. He sat down with Skift Founder and CEO Rafat Ali as well as Airlines Reporter Meghna Maharishi to offer expert analysis about the current state of airline sector, including the overall slowdown of the industry after years of growth.

Discussion Points:

Airline Industry Status

• US airline industry slowdown after pandemic growth
• Historical relationship between revenue and GDP in airlines
• Changes in the industry post-pandemic

Inflection Point for Airlines

• Hardware (planes, routes, gates) vs. software (ancillary, premium, loyalty, frequent flyer programs)
• Shift in value creation from hardware to software
• Airlines' strategic focus on creating value through frequent flyer programs and premium services

Industry Trends

• Experience economy and affluent customers' influence on airlines
• Increased focus on creating customer value through software packages
• Financial implications and revenue sources for airlines

Vasu Raja's Perspective:

Achievements and Challenges at American Airlines

• Long-term impact of leadership roles in transforming the airline industry
• Positive changes in employee compensation and opportunities
• Growing diverse leadership and innovation within the industry

Reflection and Future Outlook

• Managing through multiple crises over 20 years
• Importance of innovation and long-term planning in the airline industry
• Value of slowing down and reflecting on past experiences

Background Reading:

American Airlines Cuts Outlook, Chief Commercial Officer Vasu Raja to Exit

A Lump Sum and Flight Benefits: American Airlines Posts Severance Package for Former Exec Vasu Raja

American Airlines’ Distribution Disaster: IATA Chief Willie Walsh Weighs In

American Airlines CEO Admits ‘We’ve Dug Ourselves a Hole’

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