New Delhi, Aug. 23 -- United Airlines chief executive Scott Kirby is charting an ambitious next phase for the carrier, spanning a larger footprint at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport, further international expansion, premium cabins and artificial intelligence, while keeping the door open to major airline mergers.

The strategy comes as US airlines contend with rising costs, limited airport capacity and growing demand for premium travel. United is also preparing for the delayed arrival of Boeing's 737 Max 10, leaving it with hundreds of premium seats originally designed for the aircraft.

United has hundreds of lie-flat seats sitting in storage after delays pushed back the certification and delivery of the Boeing 737 Max 10...