Overview
- Kirby delivered a Veterans Day video from the U.S. Air Force Academy thanking service members and praising employees, also calling the United States the greatest country on Earth.
- The message included no operational changes or policy announcements and was shared the same day by aviation outlets.
- Analysts criticized the superlative as exaggerated while acknowledging United’s competitive strengths, including its expansive global route network.
- Coverage contrasted United’s position with rivals, noting Delta’s lead on profitability, brand perception, and customer experience.
- Commentators said the statement fits a pattern of Kirby’s holiday messages using lofty language, echoing past claims that United is the United States’ de facto flag carrier.