The Katie Miller Podcast Scott Kirby - United Airlines CEO | The Katie Miller Podcast Ep. 15
Nov 18, 2025
Scott Kirby, United Airlines CEO and Air Force Academy alum who raises seven kids, talks airline operations, family travel and industry policy. He recounts parenting flight stories and United’s family-focused policy changes. He breaks down staffing and FAA priorities, crisis tech and operational calm. He also shares travel routines, route planning and a few memorable passenger incidents.
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Screaming Baby Taught Empathy For Parents
- Scott Kirby recalls flying with his newborn where she cried nonstop and embarrassed him at a work event.
- He used that experience to become sympathetic and ask fellow passengers to be respectful of parents on flights.
Automation Fixes Family Seating Problems
- Automation and linking PNRs improve seating families together before gate time.
- United runs automated systems and lets customers link separate bookings so children get seated with adults whenever possible.
Family Policy Changes Born From Personal Incident
- Kathleen Kirby once wasn't allowed to bring breast milk or a stroller through security, prompting policy changes.
- Scott Kirby recounts his wife crying at Heathrow, leading United to update stroller and breast milk handling rules.