Pressure mounts on American Airlines CEO as carrier lags rivals

Core Viewpoint - American Airlines is facing significant operational and financial challenges, leading to employee dissatisfaction and questioning of leadership under CEO Robert Isom [2][3][9]. Financial Performance - American Airlines reported a profit of $111 million last year, significantly lower than Delta Air Lines' $5 billion and United Airlines' more than $3.3 billion, despite flying similar capacity [3]. - The airline's stock performance has been flat in 2026, contrasting with competitors like Southwest Airlines, which has seen a stock increase of over 30% [11]. Employee Relations - Unions representing pilots and flight attendants have expressed frustration over the airline's performance and the small profit-sharing pool for employees [2][4]. - The Allied Pilots Association has called for a meeting with the airline's board to address financial and operational issues, emphasizing the need for effective leadership [3][9]. Strategic Initiatives - CEO Isom is leading a transformation strategy aimed at improving customer service, network, and revenue management [6]. - American Airlines is focusing on enhancing premium offerings, with expectations that half of its revenue will come from these by the end of the decade [15]. Competitive Landscape - The airline is engaged in a competitive battle at Chicago O'Hare International Airport, where it generates over $5 billion in revenue, against United Airlines, which generates about $10 billion [17]. - American is revamping its fleet and services, including larger business-class cabins and improved food and beverage options, to attract higher-paying customers [14]. Operational Challenges - Recent winter storms have severely impacted the airline's operations, leading to stranded crews and operational delays, which have drawn criticism from union leaders [2][9]. - The airline's recovery from these storms has been slower compared to competitors, raising concerns about its operational efficiency [8].