Name: Laurent Magnin
Title: Chief Executive Officer
Company, city: XL Airways; Paris, France
Number of employees: 800
Recent project: Expanding our service to the United States remains a top priority. Over the past three years we launched flights to San Francisco and Miami, and we are working to add more cities in France to better connect with international routes.
First job: I left school at 15 and began working in the airline business, where my father was already involved. I joined Corsair and spent 25 years there.
Little-known fact about you: I am passionate about trains and I own a collection of 10,000 records—I love rock music.
Your Business
Essential business philosophy: Our airline exists to give people choice. Travelers often make decisions based on price, and families need affordable options. Being a smaller carrier allows us to offer competitive fares while maintaining quality service, so passengers can select travel that fits their budget without sacrificing comfort.
Best way to keep a competitive edge: It comes down to people. A positive atmosphere among staff drives efficiency and better customer service, which keeps us competitive.
Yardstick of success: Success is measured by the satisfaction of both passengers and employees. Staying close to and respecting the people who fly with us and who work for us is fundamental.
Laurent Magnin as a Traveler
What is the most important item you take when traveling? My iPad. I prefer to choose what I watch rather than rely on the airline’s in-flight entertainment selection.
How do you spend your time on board? I use flying time for personal activities: reading, watching movies and listening to music.
What is your favorite restaurant in the world? Long Island Bar-Brasserie in Paris.
What is your favorite destination in the world? Tanzania. My trip there left some of my strongest memories.
About XL Airways
Tell our readers about XL Airways’ Galaxy Class.
Galaxy Class provides an enhanced experience for travelers who want extra comfort without the full cost of business class. On long-haul flights, many passengers find the upgrade worthwhile. Galaxy seats are comparable to premium economy and include a hot meal, an amenity kit and a personal video screen. In addition, XL Airways includes a checked bag and a hot meal for all passengers, which adds clear value to our fares.
Our name, XL, stands for “excel” or “excellency.” It reflects our commitment to quality, and we are notable for having a concise two-letter name.
XL Airways operates seasonal service to New York, Las Vegas, Miami and San Francisco. Any plans to open other U.S. gateways?
The United States remains a major focus. Los Angeles is next on our list, and we plan to strengthen connections between New York and several French cities, including destinations in the south of France. Paris serves as an excellent hub for expanding connections across Europe as well.
What are the plans for the future?
We are committed to growing our long-haul network. Transatlantic connections have become increasingly important: five years ago they were a small share of our business, today they represent about 25 percent, and projections suggest they could reach 70 to 80 percent within the next three years. I would not be surprised if XL Airways eventually operates a year-round weekly service between New York City and Paris in the near future.