Airlines for America, the trade association that represents the major U.S. air carriers, has named its next president and CEO.
Former New Hampshire governor Chris Sununu will take over the position from longtime Airlines for America leader Nicholas Calio on Sept. 9, the trade group announced Monday.
Calio, a former Citigroup executive, has served as president and CEO since January 2011.
“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 in a statement. “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,” he added.
Sununu served as governor of New Hampshire from 2017 to 2025. A Republican, he considered running for president but decided against seeking his party’s nomination ahead of the 2024 election.
Airlines for America officials highlighted Sununu’s economic record in New Hampshire, including tax cuts, relief for small businesses, and increased investment in education.
“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 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.”
The former governor also received praise from American Airlines CEO Robert Isom, who serves as board vice chairman.
“Chris has consistently demonstrated strategic vision, operational expertise, and a knack for getting hard things done,” Isom said. “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.”
Calio is expected to stay on as “CEO emeritus” with Airlines for America through the end of the year.
