Airbus Recruits Former JetBlue CEO Robin Hayes to Lead North American Operations

Airbus SE announced that it hired Robin Hayes, former JetBlue Airways chief executive officer, to lead its business in North America. The aircraft manufacturing commercial company headquartered in Leiden, Netherlands, added that Hayes will succeed Airbus Americas’ chairman and CEO Jeff Knittel, who is set to retire.

Airbus said on Monday, April 22, that the CEO’s retirement takes effect on June 3. He is vacating the post he held in 2018. Knittel will remain at the company to help with the transition.

Robin Hayes Steps Down from JetBlue

As per CNN Business, the newly-appointed Airbus North America chief has been with JetBlue for nine years, serving as its CEO. In February this year, he stepped down from the post and cited health issues as the reason for his decision.

At any rate, Hayes is back in the business and is set to lead Airbus North America. His appointment comes at a crucial time for Airbus, which is looking to beat its American rival in the aircraft manufacturing business, Boeing, which is currently facing criticism and probes over safety issues.

New Start at Airbus

Robin Hayes will lead Airbus’ commercial aircraft unit in North America. As the unit’s chairman and CEO, he will also coordinate the company’s helicopters, space, and defense businesses in the region, which has over 10,000 employees across its 50 locations.

“I am delighted to welcome Robin to Airbus,” Guillaume Faurys, Airbus’s chief executive, said in a press release. “Together with the leadership team, we are 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.”

The CEO added, “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.”

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