On October 13, 2025, the founder of Virgin Atlantic Sir Richard Branson confirmed that the carrier’s current Chief Customer and Operating Officer, Corneel Koster, would succeed Weiss as of January 1, 2026. 

“Shai has done an outstanding job over the past seven years,” Branson said. “I’m grateful for his vision, passion and commitment to creating brilliant experiences that have made the airline stronger and raised the bar across the industry.”  

He added: “I’m delighted to welcome Corneel as CEO. He embodies the Virgin spirit – bold, curious and ready to shake up the status quo. We look forward to this exciting new chapter.” 

Virgin Atlantic said that Koster, who rejoined the company in 2019 as CCO, had been “instrumental in running a safe and reliable operation” and had played a “pivotal role ensuring the airline emerged from the pandemic thriving and reliable”. 

Koster also led the introduction of the Airbus A330neo aircraft and delivered digital operational transformation. 

As well as Virgin Atlantic, Koster has held senior roles at Delta Air Lines, Aeroméxico and KLM. 

Koster said: “I’ve long held a very special place in my heart for Virgin Atlantic, so it’s an incredible privilege to take up the role of CEO. We’ve always done everything in our power to give our customers and our people the best experience in the skies, delivered with a smile and the special challenger spirit that Richard instilled in us from day one. I’m determined we carry that spirit forward.”  

He added: “I’d like to thank the Virgin Atlantic Board for their trust and confidence and to thank Shai for his leadership and his friendship. I’m proud to lead our talented teams into our next chapter.” 

Credits: Virgin Atlantic

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“These transitions mark an exciting moment for Alaska Air Group, and the milestone of a single operating certificate is a natural time to evolve our leadership team as we grow into a global premium airline. I am deeply grateful for Constance’s remarkable contributions during an exceptionally dynamic time for our company and industry, and I am thrilled to welcome Jason and Andy into their new roles. Their leadership will help us continue to deliver on our commitment to connect guests to the world through a remarkable experience rooted in safety, care, and performance,” said Ben Minicucci, President and CEO Alaska Air Group.

COO Constance von Muehlen Retiring

After 15 years of dedicated work for Alaska Airlines, Chief Operations Officer Constance von Muehlen will retire in February.

Von Muehlen has been part of Alaska Airlines since 2011 and assumed the duties of COO in 2021, leading the airline through a period of growth and transformation with a focus on advancing safety, reliability, and innovation across its operations.

“It has been an absolute privilege to lead Alaska’s frontline teams these past 5 years — out of the pandemic, into an integration, and always putting safety and excellence at the forefront. Every day, I get to see how Alaska regularly leads the industry in care and performance, and it’s because of the dedication of thousands of technicians, flight attendants, pilots, customer service agents, dispatchers, and everyone in between. I know they will continue this excellence with Jason at the helm,” said Constance von Muehlen.

Jason Berry Appointed as New COO

Current president of Horizon Air and executive vice president of cargo for Alaska Air Group, Jason Berry, will take over the duties of COO at Alaska Airlines starting 3 November 2025. Von Muehlen will advise and support Jason Berry inhis new role until February 2026.

Jason Berry brings extensive experience in ground services, cargo, and regional operations, including managerial roles at Air Canada, Cargolux, and McGee Air Services.

“This is an incredibly exciting time at Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines. As we move toward the next integration milestone, a single operating certificate, we’re bringing together incredible frontline teams who will continue to lead the industry in safety, remarkable customer service and operational excellence. I am so honored to be taking on this new role as we build on the great foundation Constance and her team have established and know that Horizon is in great hands with Andy as CEO and president,” said Jason Berry.

Andy Schneider: New CEO and President of Horizon Air

Andy Schneide, who is currently serving  Alaska Airlines as senior vice president of people and playing a crucial role in shaping the company’s culture and talent strategy, will replace Jason Berry as CEO and President of Horizon Air, continuing its legacy of exceptional regional service.

Andy Schneider was part of the Air Group for over 35 years and held various operational roles in the group, including Alaska Airlines’ vice president of inflight and call center services and senior vice president of people and customer services at Horizon.

“I am so humbled and honored to be returning to Horizon after more than 14 years. What makes Horizon special are the incredible people who work here and the important role they play as a lifeline for the communities we serve. I’m so excited for this next chapter as we build on the rich legacy the Horizon team has established,” said Andy Schneider. 

Single Operating Certificate for Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines

Over the past year, Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines have collaborated to become a single mainline operating carrier under a Single Operating Certificate (SOC). The airlines expect the FAA to grant its approval later this fall.

Credits: Alaska Airlines

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