Edward Herman Bastian (born June 6, 1957)[1] is an American business executive who has served as the chief executive officer of Delta Air Lines since May 2, 2016.[2]
During his tenure as CEO of Delta, Bastian clashed with the Joe Biden administration over new consumer protection regulations, such as requiring automatic cash refunds for consumers after canceled flights and advertising the full price of fares upfront. Following Donald Trump's election victory in 2024, Bastian praised Trump, saying he would be a "a breath of fresh air" for the American airline industry.
Early life and education
Bastian grew up in Poughkeepsie, New York, the oldest of nine children. His father was a dentist and his mother was a dental assistant. The couple operated a dental practice from within the family home.[3] He graduated from Our Lady of Lourdes High School