Alaska Air Group Announces Leadership Changes at Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air

What's Happening?

Alaska Air Group has announced significant leadership transitions within its subsidiaries, Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air. Constance von Muehlen, the Chief Operating Officer of Alaska Airlines, will retire after nearly 15 years of service. She will be succeeded by Jason Berry, who currently serves as President of Horizon Air and Executive Vice President of Cargo for Alaska Air Group. Berry's appointment as COO will be effective November 3, 2025, with von Muehlen remaining in an advisory role until February 2026 to ensure a smooth transition. Additionally, Andy Schneider, currently Senior Vice President of People at Alaska Airlines, will become CEO and President of Horizon Air. These changes come as Alaska Air Group prepares to integrate Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines under a single operating certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration, expected later this fall.

Why It's Important?

The leadership transitions at Alaska Air Group are crucial as the company navigates a period of integration and expansion. The appointment of Jason Berry and Andy Schneider to key roles is expected to bolster operational excellence and enhance the company's people-first culture. This strategic move aligns with Alaska Air Group's goal to become a global premium airline, expanding its reach and improving service quality. The integration of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines under a single operating certificate will streamline operations and potentially increase efficiency, benefiting passengers with improved service and connectivity. The leadership changes are poised to support these objectives, ensuring the company remains competitive in the evolving aviation industry.

What's Next?

As Alaska Air Group moves forward with its leadership transitions, the focus will be on achieving the integration milestone of a single operating certificate for Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines. This process will involve coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration and the alignment of operational procedures across both airlines. The new leadership team will be tasked with maintaining safety, customer service, and operational excellence during this transition. Stakeholders, including employees and passengers, will be closely watching how these changes impact the company's performance and service delivery. The successful integration and leadership transition will be pivotal in positioning Alaska Air Group as a leading global airline.

Beyond the Headlines

The leadership changes at Alaska Air Group highlight the importance of strategic succession planning in the aviation industry. By promoting experienced leaders from within, the company ensures continuity and leverages institutional knowledge. This approach reflects a broader trend in corporate governance, where internal promotions are used to maintain stability and drive long-term growth. Additionally, the integration of Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines under a single operating certificate may set a precedent for other airlines considering similar consolidations to enhance efficiency and competitiveness in the global market.