Originally Posted by
SJC ORD LDR
You're factually correct. He came onto the BOD after Delta emerged from bankruptcy and was not thought to be the next CEO (It was supposed to be Whitehurst or Bastian).
After a few months of not being sure about how he would do, I think the answer is that he does pretty well and was smart enough to keep the positive changes from the Grinstein era going. He is running an company that provides a more reliable service than his competitors.
When he became CEO, it was obvious that a merger with NW was inevitable. It took only eight months before it became official. What Gerry did during bankruptcy was impressive despite the horrific financial situation Delta endured in the four year period between 9/11 and bankruptcy filing. Not only has Anderson continued what Gerry started, he's gone much further in improving Delta's financial and network position.