CEOs: Future is fewer, faster, cleaner airlines. Scott Mayerowitz, AP via The Columbus Dispatch
In 25 years:
• David Barger, CEO, JetBlue Airways: “The freedom to travel between any two points in the world will be commonplace. There will be billions of travelers every year flying on new aircraft that will be environmentally friendly; in fact, they will be making zero-carbon travel maybe even a reality.”
• Sir Richard Branson, president, Virgin Atlantic Airways: “I have no doubt that during my lifetime we will be able to fly from London to Sydney in under two hours, with minimal environmental impact. The awe-inspiring views of our beautiful planet below and zero-gravity passenger fun will bring a whole new meaning to in-flight entertainment.”
• Jeff Smisek, CEO, United Airlines: “The airframe and engine manufacturers continue to develop aircraft that are more fuel-efficient, have lower maintenance costs and have greater range and utility. Longer term, I believe manufacturers will explore engine and airframe technology that could significantly reduce travel times, but advances in this area would have to be safe and economical to make a real impact on our industry.”
The responses were given by various airline CEO's regarding the future of the airline industry. The only Smisek quote printed is in regards to where they see aviation in 25 years. Notice the optimistic thinking of the other CEO's compared to the dull, pragmatic view held by Smisek.
Much has been made, in print, online and elsewhere, about United's run to the bottom. You only need to look at Smisek's view of the future to understand why. Right now they are an airline led by a man with no vision, and even less imagination. It's time for him to go and bring in someone with a plan for growth and improvement instead of cuts and a second-tier strategy.
