One of the most important aviation industry groups in the United States has named a new CEO.
Airlines for America (A4A) said on Monday that former New Hampshire Governor Chris Sununu will be instated as the organization’s president and CEO on September 9.
“I am honored to join Airlines for America during this critical moment for an aviation industry that supports over 10 million jobs and serves as a key economic driver in communities big and small across the country,” Sununu said.
Sununu served as the Republican governor of New Hampshire from 2017 to 2025. While in office, he focused on reducing taxes and providing education benefits.
“Chris has consistently demonstrated strategic vision, operational expertise and a knack for getting hard things done,” American Airlines CEO Robert Isom, who is also the A4A Board Vice Chair. “At this pivotal moment for U.S. aviation, he’s the right leader for Airlines for America.”
One major priority for Sununu will be collaborating with the FAA as it looks to overhaul the United States air travel system at large. “I look forward to working closely with our Board, President Trump and Secretary Duffy, Congress, and other aviation stakeholders to support the ongoing investment and overhaul of our air traffic control infrastructure. Strengthening and modernizing our system is vital for making the safest mode of transportation even safer and more efficient and maintaining the global competitiveness of the U.S. airline industry.”
Sununu will replace Nick Calio as CEO, who helmed Airlines for America for nearly 15 years. Calio will stay on board as the organization’s CEO Emeritus through the end of 2025.
The organization is an industry group that represents the interests of the 10 biggest passenger and cargo airlines in the U.S. in government matters in Congress, presidential administrations, federal agencies, and other stakeholders.
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