People

Gordon Bethune

Gordon Bethune

Formal First Name
Gordon
Dates
8/29/1941 - present

Gordon Bethune earned worldwide acclaim for spearheading one of the most stirring corporate turnarounds in United States history. When he joined Continental Airlines in 1994, the carrier consistently ranked last in every measurable performance metric. Continental thrived under his leadership, winning more awards for customer satisfaction from J.D. Power and Associates than any other airline. In his final year directing the airline to success, Fortune magazine ranked Continental 1994′s No. 1. Bethune retired from Continental at the end of 2004.

Professional Experience


Academic History

CURRENT APPOINTMENTS


HONORARY DEGREES


OTHERS

  • Bethune began his career with Boeing in 1988.
  • He is a licensed commercial pilot, type-rated on Boeing 757 and 767 aircraft as well as the DC-3.
  • He is also licensed as an airframe and power plant mechanic.
  • He has served as a U.S. Navy aircraft maintenance officer.