The American Way
Because he was dissatisfied with his lack of authority, Marion Sadlerthree years ago abruptly quit as president of American Airlines. Hegave the job back to Chairman C. R. Smith, who as he grew older, stilldominated the airline he helped found. Smith persuaded Sadler to returnand gave him responsibilities consonant with his title. Last week,however, word came that Sadler was about to quit again.
This time there is no question of his returning: the reason for thedeparture is a serious matter of health. Sadler, 56, survived a canceroperation 18 months ago, but he is still being bothered bycomplications. This week, therefore, American's board will accept hisresignation and appoint Executive Vice President George A. Spater, 58,to take his place.
Some Satisfaction. Though Sadler departs before he intended to, he cantake satisfaction from a 27-year career at American that began as aramp agent. For one thing, the situation that prompted his earlierresignation has long since been settled. Financial Vice PresidentWilliam J. Hogan, who held about as much power as Sadler and reportedto Smith, has retired, leaving the president to run the airline—withSmith's blessing, of course—pretty much in his own way. Beyond that,as a man who worked his way up through sales jobs and has constantlykept passengers in mind, Sadler leaves with some conspicuous marks onthe industry.
It was he who thought up the half fare for young people, which hasstimulated a new generation to fly, even while creating some problemsfor the industry. Sadler also conceived airline credit and the cut-ratefare for military personnel. Many an airline traveler is losing afriend he never knew he had. Along with collecting coins and studyingLatin, onetime Schoolteacher Sadler's weekend habit was to fly toAmerican cities, listen to complaints—and try to correct the problems.
Something New. Successor Spater springs from a completely differentbackground. Born in Detroit, he studied law at the University ofMichigan , spent his time in corporate practice until he joinedAmerican in 1959 as general counsel. During the feud between Sadler andHogan, Spater was given more and more responsibility, ended up as anatural successor to both. Ironically, in his new position Spater willgain something that Sadler has always wanted but never got. Naming himpresident this week, American's board of directors is also expected toname him chief executive, succeeding C. R. Smith, now 68.
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