Frank McCartney
General Manager, Edinburgh, United Airlines 

What was it that made you choose a career in the airline industry?

What attracted me to aviation was the opportunity to be part of something that connects people and places around the world. Working on the ground, you’re part of a much bigger picture. Over time, I really valued teamwork and the sense that everyone plays a role in keeping things moving safely and efficiently.

Tell us about your career to date.

I began my career in 1992 with British Airways and gained experience across several ground handling companies including Ogden Aviation, Servisair, and Flying Colours. In 1998, I joined Continental Airlines, now United Airlines, where I’ve built a long-term career in airport operations and team leadership.

What is your current role with United Airlines? 

I’m currently the General Manager for United Airlines based at Edinburgh Airport. I oversee the day-to-day operation, ensuring safe and on-time departures through our station KPI and metrics, managing my team and service partners, and maintaining strong relationships with airport and government authorities.

I’m also part of our Safety Success team for the Atlantic Region, ensuring we are supporting other stations developing to the next level of safety excellence achievement.  

Things have changed massively in the airline industry over the years - is there anything you would still like to see from the past?

We’re more efficient than ever, but I’d love to keep that personal touch that made travel feel special.

Why do you think United has been so successful from Scotland?

Strong demand, a reliable operation, and great local partnerships in Edinburgh and now that we are flying from Glasgow again have all been key. Consistency and customer trust are what drive success.

Your Boeing 757 aircraft have given fantastic service – how do you see the future of the services from Edinburgh to Newark, Washington and Chicago and Glasgow to Newark?

The Boeing 757 has been a fantastic aircraft for Scotland. Looking ahead, fleet modernisation will bring even better efficiency and an improved onboard experience across our transatlantic routes.

You must have met some amazing people - who stands out in your memory?

I’ve met many great people, but the ones who stand out most are the team I built myself. Some of them have been with me for over 20 years, which says a lot.

What makes them special isn’t just their loyalty, but the trust, resilience, and shared experiences we’ve built over time. Seeing people grow, stick together, and take pride in what we’ve achieved as a team is something I’ll always value.

As a manager, what is your idea of great people skills?

Good people skills come down to listening, being consistent, and leading by example. It’s about building trust and supporting your team to perform at their best.

What have been the principal highlights of your career with United?

A real highlight has been our safety achievements- reaching Silver Safety Excellence in 2019 and Gold status in 2025. Those milestones reflect the consistency and commitment of the entire team. 

Some other highlights include the expansion not only for Edinburgh but for Scotland as a whole, when we started our direct services to Chicago and Washington DC daily flights in the summer.

Do you have a personal favourite United Airlines’ destination?

My personal favourite would be Florida. It’s somewhere my wife and kids love visiting. It’s a great mix of sunshine, relaxation, and family time, which makes it really special for me.