United Should Sideline Performative Gestures In Favor Of Improvements

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has drawn scrutiny for pursuing merger talks even as the airline works to improve its long-running operational issues. The article notes Kirby proposed combinations with financially stronger Delta and with American Airlines, but both efforts were rejected, citing the low likelihood of such large mergers under strict U.S. antitrust rules. The piece argues Kirby should focus on fixing United’s day-to-day operations, which he has begun, rather than initiatives seen as driven by personal ambition. It also references a Washington, D.C.-based think tank’s internal bylaws limiting its staff from flying United, reflecting past perceptions of delays and cancellations.