State of Aviate 2026
February 20, 2026
In case you missed it, we hosted our largest virtual event of the year, where we discussed important United updates, Aviate program highlights, and more.
During the event, attendees heard from:
Captain Rob Thomas – United Airlines, Vice President Flight Operations Planning & Development
Captain Michael Bonner – United Airlines, Managing Director Aviate & Pilot Strategy
Michael Hales – United Aviate Academy, CEO
Justin Ritter – United Airlines, Senior Manager of Pilot Hiring Programs
Captain Margie Freeman – Air Line Pilots Association (ALPA), UAL-MEC Professional Development Committee Chair
Aaron Flanagan – United Airlines, Manager of Aviate Engagement
Colin Metz – United Airlines, Program Manager of Pilot Strategy
Katie Moston – United Airlines, Aviate Engagement Representative & State of Aviate moderator
Check out these key highlights in the recording:
- United Airlines 2025 highlights and accomplishments
- Celebration for Captain Michael Bonner’s 30-year anniversary and retirement – plus an exclusive spotlight with Captain Bonner
- ALPA overview
- Aviate program updates and 2025 highlights
- First Officer B737 Nathalie P.’s Aviate success story
- Pilot hiring update across the industry and United
- United Aviate Academy overview