United Airlines CEO Accuses Boeing and Airbus of Avoiding New Aircraft Development
United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has criticized Boeing and Airbus, the world’s two largest commercial aircraft manufacturers, for their reluctance to invest in developing entirely new aircraft. Kirby suggested that the two manufacturers have reached an informal understanding to avoid investing in new aircraft designs due to their dominant positions in the global market.
Speaking in an interview with John Collison and Ben Thompson, Kirby argued that the dominance of Boeing and Airbus in the commercial aviation market has limited competition. He claimed that although there is no formal agreement, the two manufacturers have effectively reached a tacit understanding not to invest in developing new aircraft platforms.
Kirby particularly criticized the lack of a modern replacement for the Boeing 757, stating that he has been requesting such an aircraft from both manufacturers for more than 20 years. He emphasized the need for a new aircraft that combines the capacity of narrowbody aircraft with the range capabilities typically associated with larger widebody models.
The United Airlines CEO also argued that a third major aircraft manufacturer is needed to increase competition. United Airlines has already invested in JetZero, a company developing alternative aircraft technologies. Under an agreement announced in April 2025, United secured a conditional pathway to purchase 100 blended-wing-body aircraft, with options for another 100. The proposed aircraft is designed to accommodate approximately 250 passengers, although any future orders depend on JetZero meeting development milestones and United’s operational requirements.
Source: View from the Wing
