Airbus Americas CEO Jeffrey Knittel retires, former JetBlue CEO to succeed

Jeffrey Knittel is retiring as chairman and chief executive officer of Airbus Americas from June 3, 2024, after serving the position since 2018. Though, he will remain at Airbus through a transition period, the company said. In his place, Airbus has appointed former of JetBlue Airways CEO Robin Hayes to succeed Knittel. ""My time at Airbus has been a privilege and I am immensely proud of what the team has accomplished during our time together,"" said Knittel. ""We significantly increased revenues, grew market share and expanded our presence and operational footprint across all three Airbus businesses."" ""It is an honour for me to take up this opportunity to be part of the Airbus team,"" said Hayes. ""Airbus’ commitment to safety and decarbonisation is incredibly important to me personally, and I am both motivated by and committed to contributing to the Airbus purpose to pioneer sustainable aerospace."" Hayes will lead Airbus Americas' commercial aircraft business, and will have responsibility for coordination among the company’s helicopters, space and defence businesses. He will report to Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury. ""Together with the leadership team we’re looking forward to having Robin and his vast industry experience onboard to further deliver on our strategic objectives for the region across all the Airbus businesses and further grow our North American footprint,"" said Faury. ""I want to thank Jeff for his many contributions to Airbus’ success over the years, and I wish him all the best for a well deserved retirement."" JetBlue had announced in January that Hayes would step down as CEO as of February 12, after nine years in the position. Additionally, he has served in a series of senior executive roles at JetBlue as well as British Airways throughout his career spanning over 35 years.