United sees travel uptick but is not expecting a boost from L.A. Games

Airline expansion at LAX is constrained by the number of gates, CEO Scott Kirby says.

- NILESH CHRISTOPHER

UNITED AIRLINES CEO Scott Kirby says travel demand has increased, especially after Labor Day.

Business and leisure travel are showing signs of picking up after a weak start to the year.

Scott Kirby, chief executive of United Airlines, told the Los Angeles Times that, with some easing of uncertainty surrounding tariffs, the economy and global politics, more people and businesses are gaining the confidence to hit the road again.

The airline industry is perhaps the best real-time indicator of the U.S. economy, as travel is one of the first things that businesses and consumers cut back on when they sense difficult times ahead.

Since June, however, United’s orders suggest there is more certainty as consumers know what to expect and booking demand since Labor Day has surged, Kirby said.

In an interview, Kirby took a swipe at ultra low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines, discussed artificial intelligence and explained why he thinks the 2028 Olympics might not be such great news for the airline industry.

The conversation has been edited for length and clarity.

How are United Airlines operations changing in L.A.?