Chief Operating Officer and President Ben Minicucci of Alaska Airlines will become CEO of Virgin America following Alaska Air Group’s $4 billion acquisition of the carrier. The Seattle Times reported that Virgin America’s Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Peter Hunt will serve as acting president of Virgin America until the two airlines obtain a single operating certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration, expected sometime in 2018.
The acquisition was announced in April and is scheduled to close in the fourth quarter of this year. Brad Tilden, chairman of Alaska Air Group, said the combined airline will provide customers with a broader route network and more nonstop travel options, particularly thanks to a stronger presence in California. He added that the merger brings together two talented employee groups and aims to make the combined company a stronger national competitor.
Once the integration is complete, Alaska Airlines’ frequent flyer program, Mileage Plan, will be combined with Virgin America’s Elevate members. The company headquarters will remain in Seattle.