Dubliner Willie Walsh is to retire from his role as CEO of Aer Lingus owner International Airlines Group.
It was announced this morning that he will step down from his role from the Board of IAG on 26 March 2020 and will retire on 30 June 2020.
The 58-year-old from north Dublin began his career as a pilot with Aer Lingus at age 17.
He has previously served as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Executive of Aer Lingus.
Willie then moved to Virgin Atlantic and British Airways, and then oversaw the merger of BA and Iberia to become IAG.
Aer Lingus became part of IAG in 2015.
Speaking about the announcement, Willie said: “It has been a privilege to have been instrumental in the creation and development of IAG.
"I have had the pleasure of working with many exceptional people over the past 15 years at British Airways and at IAG.
"Luis has been a core member of the team and has shown true leadership over the years and I have no doubt he will be a great CEO of IAG."
Antonio Vazquez, IAG chairman, said: “Willie has led the merger and successful integration of British Airways and Iberia to form IAG. Under Willie’s leadership IAG has become one of the leading global airline groups.
“Willie has been the main driver of this unique idea that is IAG. I hugely admire his commitment, strong leadership and clear vision, always ready to take on whatever challenges lay ahead of him.
"I am deeply respectful of what he has achieved as CEO of this Group, of his sense of fairness, his transparency and his capacity to integrate people regardless of nationalities or backgrounds."
The chief executive of Iberia, Luis Gallego, will succeed him as chief executive.
