In October 2021, Delta Air Lines CEO Ed Bastian noted a significant shift in the airline's workforce as it emerged from the COVID-19 pandemic. Speaking to investors, he called it a "juniority benefit."
"Many of our most experienced employees have chosen to retire, and that's opened up opportunities for younger people," Bastian said, framing the change as advantageous for the company. But juniority benefits were not without costs.
Delta, like other airlines, struggled to bring its new employees up to speed. "The chief issue we're working through is not hiring but a training and experience bubble," said Bastian in an earnings call months later. Bastian emphasized the complex work of airlines, calling attention to "a pretty big learning curve" for people new to their role. "You don't step into these jobs and learn [them] overnight," he added.
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