Virgin Atlantic has appointed American Airlines’ Craig Kreeger as its new chief executive – replacing Steve Ridgway.
Kreeger, who is currently a senior vice president at American Airlines, will take up the top position at Virgin Atlantic on February 1.
Sir Richard Branson, Virgin Atlantic’s president, said: “"Craig is the right person to succeed Steve Ridgway at this dynamic and challenging time for our airline.
“We believe Craig has the experience and passion to drive Virgin Atlantic forward and capitalise on the opportunities created by our new venture with Delta Airlines.”
The departure of Ridgway, who is due to leave in March after 23 years with the airline, was announced last year.
Kreeger, who has been with American Airlines since 1985, will be tasked with developing Virgin’s new domestic UK services and making sure that the planned transatlantic joint venture with Delta is a success.
He has worked on American's joint ventures with British Airways and Iberia across the Atlantic, as well as its partnership with Japanese Airlines in the Pacific.
"I am delighted to be taking on the role of Virgin Atlantic’s chief executive," said Kreeger. "It is a great airline renowned for its customer service and innovation. I have been competing with it for many years but have always admired its laser focus on its people, its products and its customers.
"I am looking forward to working with the Virgin Atlantic team to build on Steve’s achievements and create the next exciting chapter."
Virgin said that Kreeger and Ridgway would work alongside eachother until the end of February.