| (1911
- 1990) |
| Inducted: |
1986 |
| Region: |
MidWest |
| Industry: |
Transportation
|
|
Edward E. Carlson spent most of his life in the hotel business, building Western International into a successful hotel chain. But he is most remembered for saving United Airlines. Carlson became chief executive in 1970, United’s worst year ever up till then. He canceled orders for large planes, eliminated 300 of United's 1800 daily flights, and decentralized management. He also traveled 20,000 miles a month to meet with the employees to understand their needs and wants. United showed a small loss in 1971 and a profit in 1972. |
