United Airlines CE set to testify before Congress

The CE of United Airlines Inc will testify before a House panel Tuesday in the aftermath of the forced removal April 9 of a passenger from a Chicago flight, an incident that drew international condemnation. The House Transportation Committee will hear from United CE Oscar Munoz, along with the airline's president, Scott Kirby, as well as lower level executives from American Airlines, Alaska Airlines and Southwest Airlines. The hearing is aimed at determining "what can be done to improve the flying experience for American travellers," the committee said. A US Senate panel plans a similar hearing Thursday, but has not disclosed witnesses. Congress has stepped up scrutiny of airline travel in the wake of the incident, when the passenger was forcibly removed from his seat to make room for crew members. <br/>