Ed Bastian is the CEO of Delta Air Lines, a position he's held since 2016. Born in 1961, he has a background in aviation and a long career at Delta, where he has worked since 1998. Bastian started as the...

Ed Bastian is the CEO of Delta Air Lines, a position he's held since 2016. Born in 1961, he has a background in aviation and a long career at Delta, where he has worked since 1998. Bastian started as the Vice President and Controller, working his way up to various leadership roles, including Chief Financial Officer. Under his guidance, Delta has focused on improving customer service and operational reliability. He played a significant role in Delta’s turnaround after its bankruptcy, leading the company through its merger with Northwest Airlines. His efforts helped Delta achieve record profits, including a notable $12 billion returned to shareholders since 2013. In 2023, Bastian’s total compensation reached approximately $33.4 million, which included a substantial bonus due to strong company performance. Interestingly, he has a history of insider trading, with notable stock sales reaching values over $22 million at times. Bastian also supports various charitable initiatives, committing Delta to contribute one percent of its net income to community organizations annually. This focus on giving back complements Delta’s commitment to operational excellence and customer satisfaction, making it a major player in the airline industry.