US Southwest Airlines Replaces CEO After 17 Years

▲Gary Kelly, CEO of Southwest Airlines [Image source=AP News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Kwon Jae-hee] The CEO of Southwest Airlines, one of the four major U.S. airlines, will be replaced after 17 years.

On the 23rd (local time), The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported that Gary Kelly (66), CEO of Southwest Airlines, will step down from his position as CEO in early February next year, after serving for about 17 years.

Southwest Airlines announced, "Kelly will serve as chairman of the board at least until 2026 after stepping down as CEO."

Kelly, who became CEO in 2004, doubled the number of airports served by Southwest during his tenure. He also expanded into the international market through mergers such as with AirTran.

Southwest Airlines recorded a net loss of $3.1 billion (approximately 3.52 trillion KRW) last year due to the impact of COVID-19, ending a 47-year streak of profitability. However, with government support and other factors, the company returned to profitability in the first quarter of this year.

The successor CEO is Robert Jordan (60), currently serving as vice president of corporate services. Jordan has been with Southwest since 1988.

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