Robert Isom took over as American’s CEO on March 31st, just ahead of what is set to be the airline’s biggest recovery in history. Isom’s key promise is a big one: creating a reliable airline ahead of the summer season as his competitors reduce their schedules and temper expectations.
All about smooth travel
In a town hall with pilots this week, American Airlines‘ new leader spoke about the airline’s priorities for this summer, saying,
“People really need to feel like they have control of their itineraries and we give them control by making sure they get to where they want to go on time. I just can’t be any more blunt about it than that. Other airlines are really struggling.”
American is hoping that its advanced planning and lessons from the winter will leave it prepared for any eventuality this summer. Photo: Vincenzo Pace | Simple Flying
Robert Isom’s warning comes at a critical time for US airlines, which are facing a spring meltdown. JetBlue is reportedly considering cutting 10% of its summer flights due to shortages, while Alaska Airlines already has 2% of its spring schedule. Both airlines are American’s partners, only adding more pressure to keep the airline flying smoothly.
American is ready
While the threat of COVID looms over a successful summer, Isom believes that America’s schedule reflects the staffing levels that will be available. This is an ambitious prediction given how COVID variants left airlines crippled in January, amid an Omicron surge among crew, and American’s tough Halloween weekend last year due to a lack of staff.
American is even working on getting ahead of potential weather-based delays, which can cause a knock-on effect for days. The carrier has invested heavily in its Integrated Operations Center (IOC) in Dallas-Ft. Worth to prepare for such days. This will include creating ground delay programs with Air Traffic Control when there is bad weather at a…