Why United Airlines CEO gave up his bonus last year

United Airlines CEO Oscar Munoz waived his bonus for last year. Photo / AP

United Airlines CEO Oscar Munoz, who was criticised for his initial response to a passenger being violently dragged off a plane, says he gave up his 2017 bonus.

Munoz's compensation, mostly in stock awards, fell to US$9.6 million ($13.4m) in 2017 from US$18.7m the year before.

United Continental Holdings Inc. detailed it in a securities filing Monday.

United also says Chairman Robert Milton is stepping down and the board will pick a new independent chairman.

In a letter to employees, Munoz says he waived his bonus to send a message about accountability.

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Munoz initially blamed the passenger who was dragged off a United Express flight in Chicago to make room for a crew member. He later apologised, reached an undisclosed settlement with the man, and made changes to reduce overbooking.

- AP