JetBlue made a significant announcement on Monday, revealing that the current CEO, Robin Hayes, will step down from his position in February. The incoming CEO will be Joanna Geraghty, currently serving as the airline’s chief operating officer. Assuming her role on February 12, Geraghty will make history as the first woman to lead a major U.S. airline. Having joined JetBlue in 2005, Joanna has witnessed substantial career growth, culminating in her appointment as the chief operating officer and president in 2018 at the age of 51.
Expressing gratitude for her new position, Geraghty eagerly anticipates overseeing the execution of strategic initiatives, the restoration of profitable growth, and the creation of sustainable value for shareholders. This appointment places Joanna Geraghty among the limited number of women CEOs in the global airline industry. While other major international carriers such as Qantas, Air France, and Virgin Australia have female CEOs, the United States has predominantly seen men at the helm. Notably, Cape Air is the sole other U.S. airline with a female CEO. Following the announcement of Geraghty as the new CEO, JetBlue’s shares experienced a 2% increase.
The outgoing CEO, 57-year-old Robin Hayes, will retire citing health reasons. In a statement, he remarked, “The extraordinary challenges and pressure of this job have taken their toll, and on the advice of my doctor and after talking to my wife, it’s time I put more focus on my health and well-being.” Hayes served as JetBlue’s CEO for nine years, having initially joined the airline in 2018 and ascending through roles such as executive vice president, chief commercial officer, and president. Prior to his tenure at JetBlue, Hayes contributed 19 years of service to British Airways.
JetBlue, ranking as the sixth-largest airline in the United States, has experienced notable corporate developments under Hayes’ leadership. In 2016, the airline pursued the acquisition of Virgin America, though the latter was eventually purchased by Alaska Airlines.