The single biggest thing that will improve our air travel system and make it better for everyone involved? Government investment, says Josh Earnest, Executive Vice President of Communications and Advertising of United Airlines.
In this IPW 2025 episode, recorded live on the conference floor in Chicago, Josh Earnest sits down with Afar deputy editor Michelle Baran to discuss United's ambitious strategic vision, from massive international route expansion to onboard innovations like Starlink WiFi across their entire fleet.
Earnest candidly addresses the Newark Airport challenges that plagued travelers earlier this year, explaining how government-imposed flight limits have transformed it into the most reliable airport in the New York area with 85 percent on-time performance.
Drawing from his experience as former White House Press Secretary, he also tackles the intersection of travel and politics, discussing how changing perceptions about America affect international tourism while advocating for crucial air traffic control infrastructure investments that could revolutionize the flying experience for everyone.
What You’ll Learn
How United asked the government for help to deal with the Newark challenges
How the pandemic changed the way United designs its route network planning
That United may not have the cheapest tickets, but believes it offers the most value by having good service, reliability, and convenience.
That United flies to about 144 international destinations, 34 of which have no flights from other U.S. carriers.
That United’s 10-20 year plan includes not only offering the best possible customer experience but also one that’s kinder to the environment.
Key Moments
[03:46] Following challenges at Newark, including limited capacity and staffing shortages, United asked for and received more federal regulations for the airport.
[05:37] By far the biggest thing the federal government can do that would have the most impact on air travel is to invest in the infrastructure of air traffic control.
[09:26] 80-85 percent of United’s travelers are people in the U.S. buying tickets to travel internationally, so the airline hasn’t seen a huge impact from the major decrease in inbound international tourism.
[10:43] Earnest would like potential international visitors to try not to judge the country based on what our politicians say or what they may see on social media, but to come see the U.S. for themselves.
[12:44] During the winter 2025 season, United will be increasing its flights from Chicago to warm weather places like Florida by as much as 15-20 percent.
Resources
Read the transcript of this episode
Book a flight with United
Find United on Instagram and Facebook
Afar’s air travel coverage
Previous Episode: Adam Burke, President and CEO of Los Angeles Tourism and Convention Board.
Up Next: Stacy Ritter, President and CEO of Visit Lauderdale.
Complete Series: View From Afar
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This IPW 2025 special series was recorded live in Chicago. View From Afar is a production of Afar Media and a part of Airwave Media’s podcast network (email advertising@airwavemedia.com if you would like to advertise on our podcast). The podcast is produced by Aislyn Greene and Nikki Galteland, with assistance from Michelle Baran and Billie Cohen. Music composition from Epidemic Sound.