Sunday, December 23, 2012

Mr. Robert Crandall - American/US Airways Merger Video


 
 
I recently asked Mr. Robert L. Crandall, the former Chairman and CEO of American Airlines/AMR if he would comment on the proposed American Airlines/US Airways merger.   Anyone with any knowledge of Commercial Aviation is familar with Mr. Crandall.  A legend in the airline industry,  he is widely credited with transforming AA from a near bankrupt carrier in the early 1980s to the world's largest and arguably most solvent airline by 1998.

Mr. Crandall personally oversaw the integration of American/AirCal and various other regional airline consolidations .  These experiences give Mr. Crandall keen insight in to the situation at American.   Further, he is no stranger to airline labor unions and the unique political challenges they present.  During his era, AA employees and customers were all beneficiaries of his operationally focused, "failure is not an option," candid style. 

With all the "experts" opining regarding the proposed AA/US Airways merger I thought it would be instructive to hear Mr. Crandall's thoughts on the matter.  Posted here, with his permission:

Thank you Mr. Crandall! The fact that you took the time out of your holiday schedule, at your own expense speaks volumes.  I want to wish you and your family the happiest of holidays and a healthy, prosperous New Year.
 






1 comment:

RD said...

Howard,
Nicely done. Thanks for keeping us all in the loop and for utilizing Mr. Crandall as a resource. I sent this note to Mr. Crandall verbatim.
All the best
RD Johnson

"Mr. Crandall,

Outstanding video Sir that CA Howard O'Shell just posted on his blog titled "Thoughts for American Airlines Pilots". Your views may well be the secret weapon that wins the war. This has been an arduous battle in the attempt to stay out of BK and now for us to exit BK. All the indications are that we are nearing better and more prosperous times here at our company. AMR can once again rise to the top with the right leadership and vision which eliminates the bitterness and anger you mentioned in the video -- that is they key to our future success. Your entire message was spot on and your closing statement was quite nice. I wish you and Jan the best in the coming New Year and hope that you both are having a joyous holiday period with your family. My hope and prayer for the New Year is that when this merger and exit from BK is complete, that Mr. R.L. Crandall appears on the new AMR BOD in a significant position of influence.

You have been a great leader, a great businessman and an insightful industry visionary. I also want to personally thank you for working with CA O'Shell and his efforts to keep APA on track. Thanks Sir.

All the best to you and your family.

Very Respectfully,

RD Johnson