United Names New Chief Financial Officer

Michael Leskinen promoted to CFO and Executive Vice President; also becomes member of airline's Executive Team

United Airlines today announced that Michael Leskinen has been promoted to Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President. In his new role, he will oversee corporate finance, treasury, financial planning and analysis, tax, accounting, investor relations, procurement, internal audit, risk management and corporate strategy. Leskinen will also join the airline's Executive Team.

"With two decades of experience on Wall Street and five years as a leading finance executive at United, Mike brings a unique understanding of the public markets combined with an in depth understanding of our airline and our industry," said United CEO Scott Kirby. "He is the best person to help us drive a culture within our finance team that's focused on moving fast, hitting our targets with no excuses, and being disciplined about capital and cost decision-making that supports our United Next plan. I know Mike will bring a strong and independent strategic perspective to the table when we're making decisions about United's future."

Leskinen joined United in 2018 as managing director of Investor Relations and was promoted to vice president of Corporate Development and Investor Relations in 2019. In 2021, he added the title of President of United Airlines Ventures (UAV), an industry-first corporate venture capital fund that identifies and invests in opportunities to decarbonize air travel and enhance the customer travel experience. UAV has invested in carbon capture and utilization technologies, advanced biologic feedstocks including micro-algae, electric fixed-wing regional aircraft and electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL).

United to buy 1 billion gallons of sustainable aviation fuel ......

Cemvita Corporation announced an offtake arrangement with United Airlines for up to 1 billion gallons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from Cemvita’s first full-scale SAF plant. Under the agreement, signed by Cemvita and United Airlines, Cemvita will supply United Airlines up to 50 million gallons annually for 20 years of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) made from CO2.

“Since our initial investment last year, Cemvita has made outstanding progress, including opening their new pilot plant – an important step towards producing sustainable aviation fuel,” said United Airlines Ventures President Michael Leskinen. “United is the global aviation leader in SAF production investment, but we face a real shortage of available fuel and producers. Cemvita’s technology represents a path forward for a potentially significant supply of SAF and it’s our hope that this offtake agreement for up to one billion gallons is just the beginning of our collaboration.”

Game Changing Technologies: Commercialized SAF is currently made from used cooking oil and agricultural waste. Cemvita's technology has the potential to provide more reliable feedstock production with minimal land, water, and electricity needs. Furthermore, the output of eCO2 plants has the potential to be carbon-negative and Cemvita is aiming to be cost competitive with existing crop based HEFA feedstocks and fuels, which is a crucial factor for the successful adoption of any new biomanufacturing process.

United makes new leadership promotions

Josh Earnest promoted to Executive Vice President of Communications and Advertising

 

Terri Fariello promoted to Executive Vice President of Government Affairs and Global Public Policy

United Airlines has announced two leadership promotions within its Executive team. Josh Earnest is promoted to Executive Vice President of Communications and Advertising and Terri Fariello is promoted to Executive Vice President of Government Affairs and Global Public Policy. Both will remain on United's Executive Team.

"Over the last few years, United has enjoyed a significant competitive advantage by having our policy and communications leaders at the table for every major decision we've made, especially during the extraordinary disruption caused by the pandemic," said Scott Kirby, CEO of United. "That structure only worked because Josh and Terri are professionals at the top of their game. Their counsel and strategic insight will continue to be essential as we implement our ambitious United Next plans."

"Josh and Terri are an integral part of our Executive Team and have helped enable every major action we've taken as an airline these past few years," said Brett Hart, President of United. "They have each transformed and elevated the work of their teams and I know their strategic counsel will continue to make essential contributions to our success."

Josh joined United in 2018 as senior vice president and chief communications officer. He leads the airline's global communications and advertising strategies and serves as the company's chief spokesman.

Before joining United, Josh spent two decades in politics and government, including as White House Press Secretary from 2014 to 2017 and as an analyst for NBC News from 2017-2018.

United signs agreement to buy up to 1 billion gallons of sustainable aviation fuel from Cemvita

Cemvita Corporation announced an offtake arrangement with United Airlines for up to 1 billion gallons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from Cemvita’s first full-scale SAF plant. Under the agreement, signed by Cemvita and United Airlines, Cemvita will supply United Airlines up to 50 million gallons annually for 20 years of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) made from CO2.

“Since our initial investment last year, Cemvita has made outstanding progress, including opening their new pilot plant – an important step towards producing sustainable aviation fuel,” said United Airlines Ventures President Michael Leskinen. “United is the global aviation leader in SAF production investment, but we face a real shortage of available fuel and producers. Cemvita’s technology represents a path forward for a potentially significant supply of SAF and it’s our hope that this offtake agreement for up to one billion gallons is just the beginning of our collaboration.”

Game Changing Technologies: Commercialized SAF is currently made from used cooking oil and agricultural waste. Cemvita's technology has the potential to provide more reliable feedstock production with minimal land, water, and electricity needs. Furthermore, the output of eCO2 plants has the potential to be carbon-negative and Cemvita is aiming to be cost competitive with existing crop based HEFA feedstocks and fuels, which is a crucial factor for the successful adoption of any new biomanufacturing process.

United Opens Two New Clubs in Denver, Including Its Largest Club in the World

New 35,000 sq.ft. United Club at Denver International Airport debuts as the airline's largest club, coinciding with the airline's nearly $1 billion investment to improve the customer experience in Denver

United today announced the opening of its largest United Club at Denver International Airport. This new, 35,000 sq.-ft. club is located in the B Concourse, providing a modern take on the United Club experience with a new feature bar offering beer flight boards to taste a seasonal rotation of premium local and craft beers. This club is the second in a series of new locations to open in Denver this summer; last month, a new 24,000 sq.-ft. United Club opened in the A Concourse, featuring a luxurious ski lodge aesthetic and thoughtful design touches inspired by the Colorado outdoors.

The air carrier will open an additional revamped club location in 2025, and once open, Denver International Airport will feature more than 100,000 sq.-ft. of United Club space – nearly the size of two football fields – across three United Club locations and United Club Fly, a unique grab-and-go concept offering enhanced food and beverage for United Club members with quick connections. With more than two-thirds of United customers connecting to other places in Denver, the new clubs are expected to accommodate more than double the number of travelers than before.

The opening of these new clubs comes on the heels of United unveiling a new club concept, United Club Fly^SM, in Denver last year, that is a first-of-its-kind concept for a U.S. airline. Since opening, United Club Fly has been visited by more than 100,000 travelers who've enjoyed the elevated convenience to grab food or beverages on the way to their flight.

"The new United Club locations are designed and operated to reflect feedback from our customers and match the way their travel has evolved in recent years," said Alexander Dorow, United's Head of Clubs & Lounges. "We're growing our hub in the Mile High City, and the expansion and renovation of United Club locations represents our commitment to Colorado and our customers' experience."

B Concourse United Club

Located on the eastern side in the B Concourse near gate B44, this new club location touts 35,000 sq.-ft. across three levels and more than 600 seats, making it the largest club in United's network. The space reflects Denver's beer scene with brewery-inspired elements and a new beer tasting experience at the feature bar on the mezzanine level. At the feature bar, travelers can choose from a seasonal rotation of 10 local and craft beers on tap, with selections from Colorado breweries New Belgium, Great Divide, Denver Beer Company, Upslope, among others, to enjoy from United customized tasting boards and beer glasses. The feature bar area is distinguished by five Vestaboards displaying personalized messages and menu offerings and a custom, vibrant blue mural by visual artist Charlo Garcia Walterbach that explores the joy and discovery of new places that travel brings to life.

United experienced a systemwide technology outage that stopped all flights.

An investigation is underway both internally and externally into a technology failure at the U.S. mega-carrier United Airlines that cut off communication to dispatchers through normal means.

The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that the airline asked the FAA to pause all United departures nationwide.  This outage affected aircraft both on the ground and in the air. Crews who couldn't contact dispatchers in the normal way were told to continue to their destination as planned. Hundreds of other flights were delayed. 

The carrier said that after it experienced a systemwide technology issue a fix was activated and flight operations resumed within a short period of time and that it was working with 'impacted customers to help them reach their destinations as soon as possible.'

United Airlines Introduces Bag Drop Shortcut at London Heathrow

Great news for United Airlines passengers flying from London Heathrow as the carrier announces a bag drop shortcut service is now available at Heathrow, becoming the first international United station to offer this facility.

United’s bag drop shortcut was originally unveiled in 2021, initially introduced at the airline’s Chicago, New York/Newark, Washington D.C., Houston, Denver, Los Angeles and San Francisco hubs and subsequently at a further 46 airports across the U.S.  Bag drop shortcut simplifies the lobby and bag drop process for customers, allowing them to skip the queue, check their bag in a minute or less on average, and get to their flight. According to customer surveys, the bag check process can be one of the more stressful and time-consuming parts of the travel experience and United was the first airline to streamline the process in this way.

Here's how bag drop shortcut works:

• Complete check-in on the United app or .com and select the number of bags before arriving at the airport
• Find the bag drop shortcut location at the airport designated in green with the bag drop shortcut icon. (detailed instructions available right in the app)
• At the bag drop shortcut location, customers place their bag on the scale and tap their phone using the United app (or scan their boarding pass at stations using scanners)
• The United team will check the customer's ID, apply the bag tag and they're on their way!
  

Since the initial unveiling of bag drop shortcut in 2021, more than seven million bags have been tagged using this facility and following the recent introduction at London Heathrow, Terminal 2, Zone D, more than 8,000 bags were tagged during the first two weeks alone.

“We're very excited to be United’s first international station to offer the bag drop shortcut service,” said Aaron Smythe, Director Airport Operations London Heathrow, United Airlines. “Travelling can be a stressful experience, and bag drop shortcut helps remove that stress by providing our customers with a quick and efficient process to drop their bag and be on their way in just a few minutes. Our customers are already telling us how much this new facility has improved their airport experience and in response to customer demand, we have already expanded the number of bag drop shortcut desks at Heathrow.” 

United in the U.K.

United Airlines has been serving the U.K. for over 30 years. The airline this summer is offering up to 23 daily flights from London Heathrow to its hubs at Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, New York/Newark, San Francisco and Washington/Dulles, as well as to Boston. United also offers year-round service from Edinburgh to New York/Newark and seasonal service from Edinburgh to Chicago and Washington/Dulles.

All flights are conveniently timed to connect at United’s U.S hubs with an extensive network of services to destinations throughout the Americas. Customers can book by visiting united.com or calling 0845 607 6760, or their travel agent.

United logo proudly displayed on Wrexham AFC's shirts

Flying high with United! Newly promoted Wrexham A.F.C. kick off the new season in the EFL League Two, proudly showcasing their new home shirt for the first time featuring the United Airlines logo as the official front-of-shirt sponsor.

With hubs in the U.S.’s largest cities, United Airlines provides gateways to more international destinations across the Atlantic and Pacific than any other airline in the world. United has been serving the U.K. for over 30 years and this summer is offering up to 23 daily flights from London Heathrow to its hubs at Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, New York/Newark, San Francisco and Washington/Dulles, as well as to Boston. United also offers year-round service from Edinburgh to New York/Newark and seasonal service from Edinburgh to Chicago and Washington/Dulles.

Meanwhile, Wrexham boss Phil Parkinson can see no reason why the club cannot reach Premier League with the right backing and he has asked the club's co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney for more money in the transfer window after losing its first season-opening game. 

The team lost 5-3 to MK Dons, which according to reports has prompted a “good chat” between the manager and the famous duo.

United Airlines introduces a new transcontinental amenity kit......

The new kit features skincare products from Venus Williams-backed brand

New kit features Asutra cleansing face towelette, lip balm and hand lotion – for business class passengers flying premium transcontinental routes between west coast hubs and the New York City area  

People travelling with United in Business on the airline's premium transcontinental domestic routes will be the first to experience new amenity kits that feature exclusive products from Venus Williams-backed wellness brand Asutra. The airline also introduced new amenity kits for United First passengers travelling between the continental U.S. and Hawaii, including skincare from Hawaiian brand Ua Body, which will debut onboard later this month. United distributes transcontinental and Hawaii amenity kits to approximately 65,000 total passengers per month.

"We're really proud of these amenity kits – fantastic new partners, exclusive products and high-end ingredients. Our customers are going to love them," said Peter Wolkowski, United Director of Onboard Product Design. "These kits, customized for our transcontinental and Hawaii-bound travellers, are just the latest way we're working to make the travel experience even better at United." 

Created with Asutra, the new United premium transcontinental amenity kits offer cruelty-free skincare made without any parabens, phthalates or petroleum and are designed to help the cross-country flyer unwind and feel refreshed upon landing. Each kit includes an Asutra cleansing face towelette and nourishing lip balm and hand lotion made with magnesium to help create a sense of calm plus mango seed butter, coconut oil and almond oil to soothe, moisturize and protect the skin while onboard. All held in a reusable, Asutra-branded pouch, the kit also includes a bamboo toothbrush, toothpaste,  Asutra eye mask and ear plugs to help passengers rest onboard. The pouch and eye mask are made with recycled materials and a card inside the pouch offers inspiration for self-care practices while traveling.

United adding flights for US College Football matches...

The U.S. mega-carrier United is adding 127 new, nonstop flights to help college football fans get to a match this season. 

According to the airline, more than 50,000 fans flew with them last year to various iconic college football towns across the country and this year, United wants to help even more cheer on their favourite team - or indeed teams! 

"We're committed to providing a best-in-class travel experience for our customers, whether they're travelling around the globe, or flying to see their favourite college football team play," said Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President of Global Network Planning and Alliances. "We're pleased to deliver a schedule this season that makes it easy for fans to come together and support their teams on the road."

The airline has added more flights and will be flying larger planes to select cities for the following games:

Sept. 2: Tennessee State University @ University of Notre Dame

Sept. 3: Louisiana State University @ Florida State University

Sept. 9: University of Texas-Austin @ University of Alabama

Sept. 9: University of Nevada, Las Vegas @ University of Michigan

Sept. 9: University of Cincinnati @ University of Pittsburgh

Sept. 9: University of Notre Dame @ North Carolina State University

Sept. 16: Northwestern University @ Duke University

Sept. 16: University of Washington - Seattle @ Michigan State University

Sept. 23: Ohio State University @ University of Notre Dame

Sept. 23: University of Arkansas @ Louisiana State University

Sept. 23: University of Mississippi @ University of Alabama

Sept. 23: University of Iowa @ Penn State University

Sept 23: University of Oklahoma @ University of Cincinnati

Sept. 30: Louisiana State University @ University of Mississippi

Sept. 30: University of Notre Dame @ Duke University

Oct. 7: University of Arkansas @ University of Mississippi

Oct. 14: University of Southern California @ University of Notre Dame

Oct. 14: University of Arkansas @ University of Alabama

Oct. 14: Louisiana State University @ Auburn University

Oct. 14: Ohio State University @ Purdue University

Oct. 14: University of Iowa @ University of Wisconsin-Madison

Oct. 21: University of Tennessee @ University of Alabama

Oct. 21: Penn State University @ Ohio State University

Oct. 28: University of Pittsburgh @ University of Notre Dame

Oct. 28: Ohio State University @ University of Wisconsin

Nov. 4: University of Notre Dame @ Clemson University

Nov. 4: Louisiana State University @ University of Alabama

Nov. 11: University of Michigan @ Penn State University

Nov. 11: University of Pittsburgh @ Syracuse University

Nov. 18: University of Georgia @ University of Tennessee

Nov. 18: Wake Forest University @ University of Notre Dame

United becomes the first U.S. airline to add braille to aircraft cabin interiors

The U.S. mega-carrier, United today became the first U.S. airline to add Braille to aircraft interiors, helping millions of travellers with visual disabilities more easily navigate the cabin independently. According to the Department of Transportation, about 27 million people with disabilities travelled by air in 2019.

The airline currently has equipped about a dozen aircraft with Braille markings for individual rows and seat numbers as well as inside and outside the lavatories. United expects to outfit its entire mainline fleet with Braille by the end of 2026.

"Finding your seat on a plane or getting to the restroom is something most of us take for granted, but for millions of our customers, it can be a challenge to do independently," said Linda Jojo, Executive Vice President, Chief Customer Officer for United. "By adding more tactile signage throughout our interiors, we're making the flying experience more inclusive and accessible, and that's good for everyone."

In addition to adding Braille, United is working with the National Federation of the Blind (NFB), the American Council of the Blind (ACB) and other disability advocacy groups to explore the use of other tactile navigational aids throughout the cabin such as raised letters, numbers and arrows.

United's sustainable flight fund grows to nearly $200 million and adds strategic partners....

In just five months, the United Airlines Ventures Sustainable Flight Fund SM increased in size to nearly $200 million and welcomes American Express Global Business Travel, Aramco Ventures, Aviation Capital Group, Bank of America, Boston Consulting Group, Groupe ADP, Hawaiian Airlines, and JetBlue Ventures

Fund was launched in February to rally businesses and consumers to support the supply of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) - more than 60,000 customers have contributed

The United Airlines Ventures Sustainable Flight Fund – a way for companies and consumers to come together and increase the supply of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) through the support of start-ups - has increased its investment power to nearly $200 million and added eight new corporate partners, five months after its initial launch.

United plane fueled with SAF.

American Express Global Business Travel, Aramco Ventures, Aviation Capital Group, Bank of America, Boston Consulting Group, Groupe ADP, Hawaiian Airlines and JetBlue Ventures, will join inaugural fund partners Air Canada, Boeing, GE Aerospace, JPMorgan Chase, and Honeywell.

United customers also have the option to contribute to supplement the airline's investment in the UAV Sustainable Flight FundSM when they book flights. Since the fund launched, more than 60,000 United customers have contributed a total of more than $200,000.

United Airlines grows the carrier's electric battery portfolio with an investment in EPS

Electric Power Systems (EPS) modules are a technology that could be compatible with and used in support of United's future decarbonizing investments

United is targeting EPS modules for potential use in airline's current ground operations, while eyeing an all-electric flight academy in the future

This week, the U.S. mega-carrier United Airlines confirmed an investment in Electric Power Systems, a company producing battery technology that can potentially be used for a broad suite of aerospace applications. Rather than producing battery cells, the company's compatible module technology can be adapted to support a variety of batteries, optimizing performance and safety. The versatility of the technology could allow United to consider EPS's modules for a number of near-term applications, and as part of its longer-term operations that support decarbonization. This is United's second investment in electric battery technology, after sodium-ion battery-maker Natron.

"Typically, we've had a clear vision of how to integrate sustainability investments into our operations. What makes EPS's technology different and exciting is the scope of operational possibilities where we have the option to deploy it today and, in the future, to help electrify and decarbonize our operations," said United Airlines Ventures President Michael Leskinen. "United's best roadmap to reaching net zero carbon emissions by 2050, without relying on traditional carbon offsets, is by using every tool at our disposal – that includes the potential use of EPS's impressive portfolio of electric aircraft powertrain solutions, including high-performance power electronics, and energy storage systems."

United to become first U.S. Airline to fly direct to Manila from the continental U.S.

United adds more nonstops to Tokyo, Hong Kong and Taipei

United  will serve a total of 15 different long-haul international destinations across the Pacific this winter, more than all other U.S. airlines combined

Already the largest U.S. carrier across both the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, United today adds even more flights to the Asia-Pacific region, becoming the first U.S. airline to fly direct to Manila from the continental U.S. and adding more non-stops to Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Taipei. These new flights will start in October.

In total, the airline will fly long-haul flights to 15 different international destinations across the Pacific this winter. Excluding mainland China flying, United's transpacific network will be 50% larger than all other U.S. airlines combined.

This expansion builds on the continued growth of United's international network. Earlier this year, the airline made the largest South Pacific network expansion in aviation history – adding 40% more flights between the U.S. and Australia/New Zealand. And this summer United is flying its largest-ever schedule across the Atlantic, 32% larger than the airline's 2019 schedule and 10% larger than the next largest U.S. carrier.

"United offers more flights to more destinations across the Pacific than all other U.S. airlines combined," said Patrick Quayle, senior vice president of global network planning and alliances. "United is the flag carrier of the U.S. and we are excited to bring this new service to Manila while expanding access to Hong Kong, Taipei and Tokyo."

Beginning October 29, United will fly between San Francisco and Manila. The airline is already the only U.S. carrier to serve Manila from Guam and Palau, and will soon be the only to offer non-stop service to the Philippines from the continental U.S. Additionally, starting October 28, United will launch new service between Los Angeles and Hong Kong, building on its existing services from San Francisco.

In Tokyo, United will resume non-stop flights between Los Angeles and Tokyo/Narita, adding to its existing service between Los Angeles and Tokyo-Haneda. The airline will also increase flying to Taipei with a second daily year-round service from San Francisco, providing customers new time options to fly between the two cities.

San Francisco – Manila, Philippines*

Starting October 29, United will be the only U.S. airline with non-stop transpacific flights to the Philippines, with the launch of its service between San Francisco and Manila. Adding to the carrier's existing service to Manila from Guam and Palau, the new flight will operate daily on a Boeing 777-300ER, the airline's largest aeroplane.

Los Angeles – Hong Kong*

United is the only U.S. airline to fly non-stop to Hong Kong, and starting October 28, the carrier will increase its service with a new, direct daily flight from Los Angeles. The flight will operate daily on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. In total this winter, United will have three daily flights to Hong Kong from Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Los Angeles – Tokyo/Narita

On October 28, United will resume daily, direct service between Los Angeles and Tokyo/Narita on a Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner. With its existing service between Los Angeles and Tokyo/Haneda, United will now connect Los Angeles to both of Tokyo's international airports.

Increased Flying to Taipei*

In addition to adding new routes to its schedule, United will also increase its flying to Taipei, beginning October 29. United is already the only U.S. airline to fly non-stop from the U.S. to Taipei with its daily service from San Francisco and will now serve the destination twice daily. The new flight will operate on a Boeing 777-200ER aircraft.

Australia & New Zealand Expansion

Earlier this year, United announced the largest South Pacific network expansion ever to and from the continental U.S. This upcoming northern winter, United will operate 66 flights between the U.S. and Australia/New Zealand every week. Highlights include:

Becoming the only airline to offer non-stop service to Christchurch, New Zealand with new service from San Francisco*

Building on its position as the largest U.S. airline to Auckland by adding four weekly flights from Los Angeles*

Serving as the largest carrier between the U.S. and Brisbane with a new route from Los Angeles*

Offering daily flights between San Francisco and Brisbane and Melbourne and twice daily flights between San Francisco and Sydney

*flights subject to government approval

United has just introduced a new domestic first-class seat that includes a wireless charging station in every armrest.

United Debuts Wireless Charging Onboard

New domestic first class seat offers three types of charging outlets, vegan leather upholstery, larger seatback screens and tray tables, Bluetooth connectivity, privacy screens, Italian quartzite cocktail tables and an ergonomist-designed cushion

Travellers will start seeing the new United First seat on planes this summer as the airline expects to have the new seat on 200+ planes by late 2026

United has just introduced a new domestic first-class seat that includes a wireless charging station in every armrest.

The new United First® seat – which also features vegan leather upholstery, 13-inch seatback screens and 18-inch tray tables, Bluetooth connectivity, privacy screens and an ergonomist-designed cushion – debuts on its first 737 this month, and customers will continue to see it rollout this summer. The airline expects the new seat to be on 200 domestic planes by 2026, including 737 NGs, A321neos and 737 MAXs.

"This new United First seat is designed around the modern traveller – more charging options, bigger spaces for devices, food, drinks and personal items and extra privacy," said Mark Muren, United Managing Director of Identity, Product and Loyalty. "As we evolve the onboard experience, we're upending old industry norms and anticipating future needs to accommodate the new ways people live and travel."

In each United First new seat, customers can enjoy the following features:

Charge Multiple Devices at Once

Passengers can quickly charge their multiple electronic devices at once with three types of charging docks in each seat – wireless, AC household-style outlet and USB-C. The wireless charger is located in a compartment of the armrest to give the passenger line-of-sight to notifications and free their hands and tray table.

United's boss sends letter to all staff over recent flight chaos.

Over the weekend one of the major airlines in the U.S. experienced major disruption, which has prompted its boss, Scott Kirby to take to social media and publish a letter he sent to all of United's staff.

The CEO said that last week was one of the most challenging he'd ever experienced working in the aviation industry. During the note, he thanked staff for their hard work, and seemed to blame the disruption on the weather, Newark Airport,  the FAA, but not himself or the airline.

He also mentioned that whilst United's staff were working long hours, in difficult conditions, he took a private jet from New York City on Wednesday, to avoid the difficulties and get home to his family. Kirby says there are “no excuses” which also seems to mean there are no apologies either, so he didn't issue one, he simply said 'I regret that my actions distracted from their professionalism.' after news of the private jet escape broke.   

 

Here is the letter he sent to the staff.

United's new app feature helps customers re-book and receive meal and hotel vouchers automatically

Mobile app tool saves time and reduces stress if a flight is delayed or cancelled – first-of-its-kind feature reflects the airline's continued investments in digital technology

United announced a new mobile app feature that aims to save customers time and reduce stress if their travel plans get disrupted. Now, instead of waiting in line to talk to an agent or search for new options, the airline's new self-service tool automatically presents travellers with personalized re-booking options, bag tracking information and meal and hotel vouchers when eligible if their flight is delayed or cancelled.

While United had the lowest mainline flight and seat cancellation rates of any airline in the country during the first three months of the year, the carrier still has the most flights impacted by weather given the location of its major domestic hubs.

According to the airline, nearly 50% of its customers already turn to the app or united.com to self-serve during disruptions, so United began beta testing the new feature at the end of last year. United found that customers responded well to having alternate travel options automatically served to them in the app and that airport employees appreciated reducing the number of people physically waiting in line.

"Our goal is to get our customers to their destination on time, but we know things don't always go as planned and that's when a tool like this can make a real difference," said Linda Jojo, Chief Customer Officer for United. "Our new mobile app feature offers more transparency, saves time and reduces stress for our customers, and it shortens lines at customer service desks so our employees can better assist passengers with complex issues or questions. Plus, it's another example of United's continued investment in new technology and tools."

When a flight is delayed by more than 60 minutes or canceled, customers will automatically see options for delays and cancellations on the home screen of the United mobile app. Here's how it works:

• Get notified: Click the link in the automatic text notification or enter flight details in the mobile app or united.com to open the tool. For customers who have their reservation already loaded in the app, they'll see a prompt right on the home screen.
• Check flight and re-booking status: Confirm the status of your flight and see if you've been re-booked. Customers also have the option to look at other flight options and book based on their preference.
• Track your bags: Follow the status of your checked luggage to see when it is checked-in, loaded on your flight and received at your final destination.
• View eligible vouchers: Receive hotel, meal and/or rideshare vouchers if eligible.
• Connect to a United customer service agent virtually: Call, text or video chat with one of hundreds of United agents who can offer the same assistance as the agents at the airport.

For those without the United mobile app, the self-service tool is accessible on a mobile device or computer at united.com, and customers still have the option to connect in-person with a customer service agent.

This new feature is the latest way United uses technology to give travelers more transparency and improve the customer experience. For years, the airline has led the industry on implementing new technologies and policies across its operation to increase customer transparency, including:

• Free family seating: United is the first and only airline to offer a dynamic seat map feature that makes it easier to seat children under 12-years-old next to an adult in their party for free – even travelers in Basic Economy.
• Automatic customer communications: United sends personalized, real-time updates via text notifications with timely information about boarding, gate location, travel disruptions, bag tracking and more, providing awareness into flight plans or status.
• Flexible refunds and travel credits: United offers a 24-hour flexible booking policy, and in September 2021, United launched more self-service options to easily find, apply and combine credits at check-out.
• No change fees: In August 2020, United got rid of change fees, offering more flexibility for travel plans, and started complimentary standby travel, becoming the only U.S. airline that lets all customers in all classes of service fly same-day standby for free.

United Airlines picks Pratt & Whitney GTF Engines for 120 Airbus A321neo and A321XLR aircraft

Pratt & Whitney confirmed this week that U.S. mega carrier United Airlines has selected the GTF engine to power 70 Airbus A321neo and 50 A321XLR firm aircraft orders, the first of which is expected to be delivered this year.

The two companies have a long history together,  with their relationship starting more than 90 years ago as part of United Aircraft and Transport Corporation, together with Boeing, flying Boeing Model 40 aircraft with a single Pratt & Whitney Wasp engine. Today Pratt & Whitney powers more than 250 United aircraft, including the Airbus A320ceo family with V2500® engines and the Boeing 777 and 767 aircraft with PW4000 engines.

"United and Pratt & Whitney share a celebrated history as pioneers of commercial air travel, as well as a commitment to more sustainable aviation as we look forward," said Rick Deurloo, president of Commercial Engines at Pratt & Whitney. "GTF engines will enable United to get the most out of their A321neo and A321XLR aircraft, delivering industry-leading payload, range and environmental performance for those aircraft types."

About GTF Engines

The Pratt & Whitney GTF engine, featuring Collins Aerospace nacelle and engine accessories, offers the greatest fuel efficiency and lowest greenhouse gas emissions for the Airbus A320neo family. GTF-powered aircraft reduce fuel consumption and CO2 emissions by 16% to 20%, NOx emissions up to 50% and noise footprint up to 75%.* Certified for operation on 50% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and successfully tested on 100% SAF, GTF engines are ready to enable further reductions in carbon footprint, which will help the aviation industry meet its goal of net zero emissions by 2050. The engine's revolutionary geared fan architecture is the foundation for even more efficient and sustainable propulsion technologies in the decades ahead, with advancements like the Pratt & Whitney GTF Advantage™ engine and beyond. Learn more at pwgtf.com.

*Reductions vs. prior-generation aircraft, based on 75 dB noise contour and ICAO CAEP/6 emissions regulations.

Wrexham AFC gets new shirt sponsor .........United Airlines

This week, U.S. mega carrier United Airlines was named as the official front-of-shirt sponsor of Wrexham AFC, the recently promoted Welsh football team, beginning with the 2023-2024 season for both the men’s side and women’s side. As part of their broader partnership with Wrexham AFC, the United Airlines name and logo will emblazon the front of Wrexham AFC shirts during the club’s home and away games.

“We seek out sponsors that match the spirit of both Wrexham Association Football Club and the people of Wrexham,” commented Wrexham AFC Co-Chairmen Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds. “We could think of no better sponsor for the next phase of our quest than United Airlines. The team, town and fans around the world are united as never before and United Airlines is committed to elevating our story and journey.”

 

“The story of Wrexham AFC and their fans represents the best of what professional sports has to offer,” said United Airlines Chief Communications Officer Josh Earnest. “The passion and perseverance of this team on the rise has captured the imagination of people in the U.S. and around the world. When the Wrexham AFC players deliver even more heart-pumping moments this season, we couldn’t be prouder that United Airlines will be written across their chests. We’re also excited to partner with the team and their co-chairmen across social media and on their hit TV show as the incredible story of this team and its loyal fans continues to unfold.”

Panasonic Avionics and United Airlines sign deal to install Astrova in-flight entertainment system on new long-haul aircraft.....

United will be the first U.S airline to offer Panasonic's Astrova system, giving customers exclusive features like 4K OLED screens, high fidelity audio, and programmable LED lighting, starting in 2025

Panasonic Avionics Corporation has announced an agreement with leading American mega-carrier United Airlines as its first customer in the Americas for its new Astrova in-flight engagement (IFE) solution.

United plans to install Astrova on select new Boeing 787 and Airbus A321XLR aircraft beginning in 2025.

This agreement builds upon the airline's previous commitment in 2021 to install Panasonic Avionics' X Series and NEXT IFE systems on both widebody and narrowbody aircraft.

With this latest agreement around Astrova, United's program represents the largest-ever investment in Panasonic Avionics' IFE by any airline.

Collectively, these agreements cover both line-fit and retrofit installations across United's fleet and are part of United Next, which is enhancing the passenger experience on narrowbody aircraft flown in domestic and short-haul international markets. The United Next program includes seatback entertainment screens at every seat — first class has 13-inch monitors, while the economy has 10-inch monitors, larger overhead bins, high-speed Wi-Fi, USB outlets at every seat, Bluetooth audio connections for in-flight entertainment, and LED lighting throughout the cabin.

Mark Muren, Managing Director - Identity, Product, and Loyalty at United Airlines, says: "Our customers tell us that they want to be engaged, entertained and productive in the air. Our new partnership with Panasonic Avionics will make that possible and enable us to set a new standard of in-flight excellence as a key part of United Next. Together United and Panasonic will drive new standards of engagement when customers come onboard a United aircraft."

Astrova is the first IFE solution to offer 4K OLED technology. The image quality is sharper, clearer, with an infinite contrast ratio, which delivers cinema-grade colours and the perfect black. It also creates a fully immersive experience for passengers with high fidelity 3D spatial audio delivered by Panasonic Avionics' latest Bluetooth technology -- together creating the pinnacle of IFE experiences, unmatched in the industry.