United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby Calls for National Wealth Tax

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby called for the implementation of a national wealth tax and inheritance taxes that approach 100% for certain estates. In an interview with The New York Times published October 18, Kirby argued that growing wealth inequality has become a "danger to our society" and must be addressed through federal policy.

Kirby specifically advocated for a nationwide approach to the wealth tax, stating that state-based taxes would not work because wealthy individuals would simply relocate to avoid payment. While he expressed a willingness to pay such taxes himself, he did not specify the exact wealth thresholds or tax rates he supports. These comments follow a fiscal year 2025 in which Kirby received approximately $32.3 million in total compensation.

Kirby's positions contrast with the current federal tax environment established by the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which made lower marginal tax rates for high incomes permanent. During the same interview, Kirby defended United Airlines' practice of charging passengers more for preferred seating, noting that delivering those specific services costs money.