Robin Hayes, former JetBlue Airways CEO, has been appointed as the lead for Airbus in North America. Known for his nine years as JetBlue CEO, as well as his senior roles at British Airways, Hayes will now oversee Airbus’s commercial aircraft business in the region, as well as coordination among its helicopters, space, and defense businesses. He will take over from Jeff Knittel on June 3, reporting directly to Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury. With North America being a critical region for Airbus, Hayes is expected to bring his vast aviation experience and industry relationships to lead the organization into the future.
Hayes had big ambitions for JetBlue during his tenure, aiming to transform the low-cost carrier into a competitor for the major airlines of the industry. While there were successes such as the launch of the Mint business class product and expansion into transatlantic routes, there were also setbacks such as failed merger attempts and the challenges brought by the Covid-19 crisis. Facing declining revenues and soaring operating costs, Hayes led JetBlue through a turbulent time before departing for health reasons. Joanna Geraghty took over as the first woman to lead a major U.S. airline, implementing changes to restore profitability.
Hayes’ compensation at JetBlue was disclosed as approximately $10.8 million in 2023, his highest take-home pay in the past two years. His appointment at Airbus comes as a surprise in the aviation industry, following recent shifts in leadership at JetBlue including Marty St. George becoming the carrier’s new president. With extensive experience in the industry and a familiarity with Airbus’s portfolio, Hayes is positioned to continue Airbus’s success in North America, home to more than 10,000 employees across 50 sites. Airbus manufactures the A220 and A320 models, with significant operations in Montreal and Alabama.
As Hayes transitions to his new role at Airbus, there are high expectations for him to lead the company to new heights in the region. With a strong background in aviation, Hayes is poised to guide Airbus in its commercial activities and strengthen its position in the North American market. Alongside other recent leadership changes in the industry, including Geraghty taking over at JetBlue, the aviation sector is undergoing significant shifts as companies adapt to post-pandemic challenges and strive for continued growth. Hayes’ appointment signifies a strategic move for Airbus as it looks to capitalize on opportunities in North America.
The aviation industry is closely watched for its performance, with companies like Airbus and JetBlue reflecting trends and developments that impact the sector. The Skift Travel 200 index tracks the financial performance of nearly 200 travel companies worldwide, providing insight into the overall health of the industry. As airlines navigate challenges such as volatile market conditions and changing consumer preferences, having strong leadership like Hayes at the helm is crucial for driving growth and profitability. With Hayes’ expertise and vision, Airbus is positioned for success in North America and beyond.
