David Neeleman

David Gary Neeleman was born in 1959 in Sao Paulo, Brazil, and raised in a Mormon household. He moved to the United States as a child and developed an early interest in aviation and entrepreneurship.

Before founding his own airlines, Neeleman worked at Southwest Airlines and created a software company that developed the first electronic ticket system, revolutionizing airline reservations. This early experience gave him deep insight into both airline operations and customer service technology.

His first airline venture was Morris Air, a Utah-based regional carrier he co-created in the 1980s. He later sold Morris Air to Southwest Airlines, where he briefly worked before leaving to pursue new opportunities.

In 1996, Neeleman founded WestJet in Canada, pioneering the low-cost carrier model in that market. The airline's success demonstrated his ability to adapt his vision to different markets and regulatory environments.

Neeleman then launched JetBlue Airways in New York in 1998, serving as CEO until 2007 and Chairman until 2008. At JetBlue, he introduced innovative features like in-flight entertainment, leather seats, and exceptional customer service that disrupted the industry.

After leaving JetBlue following operational challenges during an ice storm in 2007, he returned to his native Brazil and founded Azul Brazilian Airlines in 2008. Azul grew to become Brazil's largest carrier by number of destinations and passengers.

In 2021, Neeleman launched Breeze Airways, focusing on underserved domestic routes with an ultra-efficient business model and a fleet of modern aircraft. Throughout his career, he has also owned a stake in TAP Air Portugal and co-founded Postiva Health.

Known for repeatedly disrupting the airline industry with customer-centric approaches, Neeleman currently serves as Breeze Airways' CEO, continuing his mission to make air travel more accessible and customer-friendly.