Skift Take
The surprise appointment marks a speedy return to the aviation industry for the former JetBlue CEO.
Former JetBlue Airways CEO Robin Hayes is joining Airbus as the company’s lead for North America.
Hayes is best known for serving as JetBlue CEO for nine years. He also held senior roles at British Airways.
As Airbus Americas chairman and CEO, he will lead the manufacturer’s commercial aircraft business in the region. He will also have responsibility for coordination among the company’s helicopters, space and defense businesses.
Hayes takes over from Jeff Knittel starting June 3 and will report to Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury. Knittel, who has been CEO of Airbus' North America unit for six years, said in a LinkedIn post on Monday that he plans to retire.
“After some time off, I am excited and energized to join Airbus and build on the incredible success in the region," Hayes said in a statement. "I have known Jeff and the Airbus team for well over a decade and I believe they have done