Virgin Atlantic has confirmed American Airlines’ executive Craig Kreeger as new chief executive to replace Steve Ridgway, who is due to depart in March.
Kreeger will join Virgin Atlantic on February 1 after 27 years at American Airlines, where he worked closely with the US carrier’s transatlantic partner and Virgin’s major rival British Airways.
Virgin’s new chief executive spent six years based in London up to last year as American’s senior vice-president for international operations.
He was appointed senior ‘customer’ vice-president at American last year.
Ridgway said: “I’m very pleased to welcome Craig Kreeger to Virgin Atlantic as the new CEO. He will be taking over at a time when the airline enters a new phase – with the Delta deal to implement [and] the commencement of short-haul competition for BA on UK domestic routes.”
Kreeger said: “I am delighted to be taking on the role of Virgin Atlantic’s chief executive. It is a great airline renowned for its customer service and innovation.
“I have been competing with Virgin Atlantic for many years [and] have always admired its laser focus on its people, its products and its customers.”
Virgin Atlantic president Sir Richard Branson added: “We are thrilled to welcome Craig to Virgin Atlantic. We believe he has the experience and passion to drive Virgin Atlantic forward and capitalise on the opportunities created by our new venture with Delta Airlines.”
One of Kreeger’s first roles will be to develop Virgin Atlantic’s fledgling partnership with Delta Airlines, a major rival during Kreeger’s time at American.
Ridgway, who will leave after 23 years at the airline, said: “I will miss the amazing team at Virgin Atlantic. They should be very proud of the airline they have built.”