Ed Bastian came to aviation later than most and, by his own admission, unexpectedly. When he joined Delta in 1998 as Vice President of Finance, becoming CEO was nowhere on the flight plan.Nearly three decades later, he now leads one of the world’s largest airlines, guiding a company of more than 100,000 employees through everything from global crises to the evolving future of travel, all while still admitting he cuts it close to the gate. We sat down with the Delta CEO to discuss the people who shaped his leadership, the lessons learned during moments of uncertainty, and why connecting people to new places never loses its sense of possibility.
What drew you to aviation in the first place?
I was always fascinated by the potential of air travel. The opportunity to connect people to new places, ideas, and cultures is something I still find incredibly exciting, even after nearly 30 years in the industry.
Who has shaped how you think about leadership the most?
Growing up as the oldest of nine children, my mother taught me a great deal about leadership. She modeled selflessness and made sure each of us had what we needed to grow and thrive. I am who I am today because of her constant care and encouragement. She was my first mentor and believed in me long before I believed in myself.
What is something people who work closely with you would say about you that might surprise others?
My team knows I trust them as experts. I am comfortable admitting when I do not know something and asking questions to better understand where things stand. Too often, leaders feel pressure to appear as though they have every answer. That is neither realistic nor productive.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Without question, my favorite part of the job is spending time with Delta people. I love seeing the passion they bring to their work every day. In the air and on the ground, our global team of more than 100,000 aviation professionals embodies what it means to care for others.
What is the best piece of advice anyone at Delta has ever given you?
During the darkest days of COVID, Frank Blake, who was Chairman at the time, reminded me that crisis does not build character, it reveals it. No matter what challenges we face, I believe deeply in Delta’s character and core values, and I know adversity ultimately makes us stronger.
You run one of the world’s largest airlines. What does your own travel routine look like?
I travel constantly, as you would expect. Much of my time is spent visiting employees, meeting with partners, or speaking at events around the world. And I have to admit, despite all these years, I am still usually cutting it close and arriving at the gate just before boarding begins.
If you had to choose: middle seat, aisle, or window?
I usually prefer an aisle seat, though I still love looking out the window on a shorter flight.
If you could describe Delta in three words, what would they be?
Always Keep Climbing.