David Neeleman is an American entrepreneur and businessman, who is renowned for his success in establishing various airlines, including JetBlue Airways, Azul Brazilian Airlines and Morris Air. Neeleman has an impressive career history, having held multiple positions in the industry, and has won several awards for his achievements. This article takes a look at the life and career of David Neeleman.
Early Life of David Neeleman
David Neeleman was born in 1959 in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was raised in a Mormon family and attended Brighton High School. He then attended the University of Utah, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree in finance. Neeleman also attended Harvard Business School, where he received his MBA.
Neeleman began his career at the age of twenty-one, working as a financial analyst for Morris Air. This was his first foray into the airline industry and he quickly rose up the ranks, becoming the company’s CEO in 1984.
Education and Career of David Neeleman
After leaving Morris Air, Neeleman held various positions in the airline industry, including CEO of Open Skies and COO of WestJet Airlines. Neeleman is most well-known for his founding of JetBlue Airways, which he launched in 1998. Under his leadership, the airline quickly grew to become one of the most successful low-cost carriers in the United States.
In 2003, Neeleman founded Azul Brazilian Airlines, which has become the leading airline in Brazil. Neeleman is also the founder of TAP Air Portugal, which he launched in 2015. In addition to his airline ventures, Neeleman has held various board positions and is currently the CEO of Breeze Airways.
Achievements of David Neeleman
Throughout his impressive career, Neeleman has won numerous awards, including the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 2005 and the Harvard Business School Alumni Achievement Award in 2017. He has also been inducted into the US Business Hall of Fame and the International Air & Space Hall of Fame.
Neeleman is widely recognized for his commitment to customer service and innovation. He has been credited with revolutionizing the airline industry, and his success has inspired many entrepreneurs.
David Neeleman is a highly successful entrepreneur and businessman, who has achieved great success in the airline industry. He has held multiple positions and founded several airlines, which have become some of the most successful in the world. Neeleman has earned numerous awards for his achievements and is widely respected for his commitment to customer service and innovation.