Publications
Publications
- November 2000 (Revised March 2001)
- HBS Case Collection
Alaska Airlines and Flight 261 (A)
Abstract
Weeks after the crash of Alaska Airlines Flight 261, 64 mechanics claim that they have been "pressured, threatened, and intimidated" into taking shortcuts. After briefly describing Alaska Airlines' history and CEO John Kelly, the case details how the airline responded to the crash and the resulting investigations. Also describes labor relations between management and its largest unions. At the end of the case CEO Kelly prepares for a news conference to respond to the mechanics allegations. Teaching purpose: To address crisis management, corporate diplomacy, labor relations, public relations, and transportation safety.
Keywords
Safety; Air Transportation; Crisis Management; Labor and Management Relations; Air Transportation Industry; Alaska
Citation
Watkins, Michael D., and Kim Slack. "Alaska Airlines and Flight 261 (A)." Harvard Business School Case 801-113, November 2000. (Revised March 2001.)