So, US got a mascot. Okay, sounds to me like someone at corporate has a new girlfriend who happened to be an advertising major in college, and she had this fabulous idea one night over backgammon and white zinfindel.
"Hey! I figured it all out! You guys don't have a cute mascot! How do you expect anyone to fly if you don't have a gimmick? Well, I know exactly the mascot you need! I came up with him during my senior project when I was in the Tri-Mu's, getting ready for Homecoming at the University of Jerkwater......."
It's an airline. Sell destinations with low fares and quick service. They last longer than mascots.