Chief financial officer Mike Leskinen said the airline is cutting management positions and using AI to make headquarters operations more efficient as part of a broader cost discipline drive.
“We’re making process changes and using AI to make the work of our headquarters management team more efficient, too. In fact, our management headcount is 4% lower than last year. As this efficiency work continues, we’re planning to shrink another 4% in 2026,” Leskinen said.
He made the remarks during United’s third-quarter 2025 earnings call, describing the shift as part of “a new culture at United Airlines” focused on lasting productivity and cost control.
Leskinen said the efficiency measures enable the airline to maintain profitability while continuing to invest heavily in its customer experience.
United has been spending over $1 billion annually to upgrade aircraft interiors, lounges, food, and Wi-Fi as part of its multi-year transformation strategy.
United CEO Scott Kirby said the airline’s evolution into a “brand-loyal, customer-centric business” has also created a structural advantage over its low-cost competitors.
United had a total of 11,900 employees as of Sept. 30 this year.
—Edited by Miguel R. Camus
