American Airlines CEO Outlines $3 Billion Profit Gap Closure Plan Against United, Delta

According to CNBC's exclusive interview conducted late last month, American Airlines CEO Robert Isom outlined plans to narrow the carrier's more than $3 billion profit gap with United Airlines, which earned roughly $3 billion more in profit than American last year, while Delta made nearly $5 billion more.

Isom said the carrier's long-range goal is to close the margin gap, though he did not specify a timeline. American's executives outlined new initiatives including larger luxury airport lounges, new wide-body aircraft orders, and refreshed interiors for long-haul fleets to attract premium passengers. The airline also plans to expand its loyalty program, improve customer experience, and increase higher-end revenue streams. Isom described the carrier's identity as "a premium global airline with the largest footprint in North America."