Q&A with Azul CEO David Neeleman
Meet Airline entrepreneur David Neeleman, who's track record in the industry speaks for itself being the driving force behind 4 successful airlines. Most Known for creating JetBlue and his current company, which is the most successful airline start-up in history Azul. I caught up with Mr. Neeleman for a quick Q&A for SandalTraveler.com
1. Were you already planning Azul in Brazil before your exit from JetBlue airways?
Neeleman: No, but our 10,000 Azul crew members and 20 million Brazilian customers sure are happy we did!
2. A city you haven't visited yet that you're dying to go to?
Neeleman: Singapore
3. Five things that are a must have when you're traveling?
Neeleman: My exercise bands, workout gear, pillow, workout DVD, telephone charger
4. Some say you have the Midus touch in the airline business, with success in Morris Air, West jet, JetBlue & now Azul. Can you please share some of your secrets to success for all future entrepreneurs?
Neeleman: Hire the best people and pay/treat them well, so they take care of each other and your customers.
5. Your company has recently added the Airbus 330 & 350 to your fleet and is set to fly from Brazil to the United states in the coming year. Which cities will you be concentrating on?
Neeleman: We will be focusing on Fort Lauderdale and Orlando, Florida by way of Campinas, near Sao Paulo Brazil, and that service will start in December of this year and we will be making a push for New York's JFK next summer.
6. Are there any other Languages you speak besides English and Portuguese?
Neeleman: No.
7. With more airlines offering wifi on board flights, do you think they'll still be a need for TV's on planes, as customers will perhaps watch movies on their Ipads or tablet?
Neeleman: I believe people will still always want to view live television.
8. For our readers who haven't been to Brazil, can you let them know what they're missing out on?
Neeleman: Great culture, amazing food and an overall beautiful country with the world's best people!