Influential aviation body Airlines for America selects former US governor as CEO
Influential aviation association Airlines for America (A4A) has appointed former US Republican governor Chris Sununu as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO).
Airlines for America confirmed on August 18, 2025, that Sununu, who governed New Hampshire from 2017 to 2025, will take over from Nick Calio after his 15 years of service.
“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,” said incoming CEO Chris Sununu.
Airlines for America represents the leading US airlines including United Airlines, Delta Air Lines and American Airlines, and acts an extremely powerful voice in defense of the carriers’ interests.
“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,” added Sununu.
According to Airlines for America, as the 82nd Governor of the State of New Hampshire Sununu “reduced property taxes by $100 million, delivered voluntary paid family medical leave, and provided more money per pupil for public education than ever before”.
“I’ve personally long admired Gov. Sununu, and now that he’s left politics, we’re honored to have him as the new President and CEO of A4A,” said A4A Board Chairman and United Airlines CEO, Scott Kirby. “The airline industry is one of the most essential enablers of strong economic growth here in the U.S. and for connecting and sharing American culture and values around the world. Chris is absolutely the right leader for this crucial industry in the years to come.”
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom also backed the appointment, saying that Sununu has “consistently demonstrated strategic vision, operational expertise and a knack for getting hard things done”.
“At this pivotal moment for U.S. aviation, he’s the right leader for Airlines for America, and I look forward to working with him to advance aviation safety, modernize our air traffic control system, and ensure U.S. aviation continues to fuel the American economy,” added Isom.
The Regional Airline Association, National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) and the Airports Council also congratulated Sununu on his new position.
RAA Congratulates Governor Chris Sununu on his Appointment as @AirlinesDotOrg’s President and CEO, and Honors Nick Calio’s Service pic.twitter.com/f4QjWuQokY— Regional Airline Association (@RAAtweets) August 18, 2025 Calio, who joined Airlines for America in 2011, will remain on as CEO Emeritus through the end of the year. Sununu will become the association’s President and CEO on September 9, 2025.
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The post Influential aviation body Airlines for America selects former US governor as CEO appeared first on AeroTime.
Influential aviation association Airlines for America (A4A) has appointed former US Republican governor Chris Sununu as its new…
The post Influential aviation body Airlines for America selects former US governor as CEO appeared first on AeroTime.
