Airline CEO who counted cards now bets premium perks can win over fliers

United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby has argued that travelers will pay more for a better overall flying experience, and United’s numbers suggest his theory is correct.

Years ago, Kirby was a serious and successful gambler who learned to count cards. He’s still banned from several casinos in Las Vegas, The Wall Street Journal reported.

Kirby has worked in the airline industry for decades and still approaches business decisions with a gambler’s mindset, according to the Journal. His strategy...