Alaska Air Group Welcomes New Leadership Amid Strategic Transitions
On September 26, 2025, Alaska Air Group made significant announcements regarding its leadership transitions, appointing new executives to strengthen its operational excellence and uphold its people-first ethos. Jason Berry will step into the role of Chief Operating Officer (COO) for Alaska Airlines, succeeding the esteemed Constance von Muehlen, who will retire after an impactful career spanning nearly 15 years with the organization.
Constance von Muehlen joined Alaska Airlines in 2011 and became COO in 2021, guiding the airline during a critical period of growth and innovation. Her contributions have significantly enhanced safety, reliability, and operational innovation within Alaska Airlines. Von Muehlen's leadership has been essential in navigating the complexities of the aviation industry, particularly during recent turbulent periods, including the pandemic recovery and necessary operational integrations. As she prepares to retire in February 2026, she will assist with the transition to ensure continuity and stability.
Jason Berry, who has an extensive 30-year background in the aviation industry, will take on the COO position effective November 3, 2025. His prior role as President of Horizon Air and Executive Vice President of Cargo for Alaska Air Group has equipped him with deep operational knowledge and experience. Berry's impressive portfolio includes work with major industry players such as Air Canada and Cargolux, and he is recognized for his ability to lead teams with both precision and compassion.
In conjunction with Jason Berry's new role, Andy Schneider will become the CEO and President of Horizon Air. Currently, Schneider serves as the Senior Vice President of People at Alaska Airlines and has been integral in developing the cultural and talent strategies of the organization over her 35 years with Air Group. Her extensive experience in operations and leadership positions at both Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air positions her perfectly to guide Horizon into its forthcoming chapter while ensuring it maintains its high standards in regional service.
The leadership transitions at Alaska Air Group come at a pivotal moment, especially as the company collaborates closely with Hawaiian Airlines towards a unified operational model, aiming for a single operating certificate (SOC) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) anticipated later this fall. The integration efforts between Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines exemplify the goal of unifying operations under one significant umbrella, which is a strategic move towards enhancing the travel experience of passengers.
Ben Minicucci, CEO of Alaska Air Group stated, "These transitions mark an exciting moment for Alaska Air Group, as we evolve our leadership team to meet the objectives of a global premium airline." He expressed gratitude for von Muehlen’s contributions during a time of transformative growth and welcomed the new leaders who will uphold the airline's commitment to exceptional service, safety, and operational performance.
Former COO von Muehlen reflected on her tenure, acknowledging the hard work of frontline teams and the company's commitment to excellence, which has allowed Alaska Airlines to lead in industry standards. Berry echoed her sentiments about the importance of continuity in service and operational excellence as he steps into his new role alongside the newly appointed executives.
As Alaska Air Group turns its focus to international opportunities, including the upcoming Euroe launch in spring 2026, the transitions of leadership are set against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving airline market. Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Horizon Air serve myriad destinations across North America, Latin America, Asia, and soon Europe, establishing a robust and diverse travel network. With the support of its committed teams, Alaska Air Group is poised to continue providing excellent travel experiences as they embrace the next chapter in their corporate history.
For more details on these changes and the latest updates from Alaska Air Group, visit news.alaskaair.com.
The leadership changes at Alaska Air Group signal a proactive adaptation to industry demands and mark a strategic path forward as they aim to enhance customer service and operational integration across their airlines. Positioned for growth and innovation, Alaska Air Group is prepared to navigate the complexities of today’s aviation landscape while rewarding its workforce and delivering exceptional travel experiences to its valued guests.
Leadership Transition Highlights
Constance von Muehlen joined Alaska Airlines in 2011 and became COO in 2021, guiding the airline during a critical period of growth and innovation. Her contributions have significantly enhanced safety, reliability, and operational innovation within Alaska Airlines. Von Muehlen's leadership has been essential in navigating the complexities of the aviation industry, particularly during recent turbulent periods, including the pandemic recovery and necessary operational integrations. As she prepares to retire in February 2026, she will assist with the transition to ensure continuity and stability.
Jason Berry, who has an extensive 30-year background in the aviation industry, will take on the COO position effective November 3, 2025. His prior role as President of Horizon Air and Executive Vice President of Cargo for Alaska Air Group has equipped him with deep operational knowledge and experience. Berry's impressive portfolio includes work with major industry players such as Air Canada and Cargolux, and he is recognized for his ability to lead teams with both precision and compassion.
In conjunction with Jason Berry's new role, Andy Schneider will become the CEO and President of Horizon Air. Currently, Schneider serves as the Senior Vice President of People at Alaska Airlines and has been integral in developing the cultural and talent strategies of the organization over her 35 years with Air Group. Her extensive experience in operations and leadership positions at both Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air positions her perfectly to guide Horizon into its forthcoming chapter while ensuring it maintains its high standards in regional service.
Looking Forward
The leadership transitions at Alaska Air Group come at a pivotal moment, especially as the company collaborates closely with Hawaiian Airlines towards a unified operational model, aiming for a single operating certificate (SOC) from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) anticipated later this fall. The integration efforts between Alaska Airlines and Hawaiian Airlines exemplify the goal of unifying operations under one significant umbrella, which is a strategic move towards enhancing the travel experience of passengers.
Ben Minicucci, CEO of Alaska Air Group stated, "These transitions mark an exciting moment for Alaska Air Group, as we evolve our leadership team to meet the objectives of a global premium airline." He expressed gratitude for von Muehlen’s contributions during a time of transformative growth and welcomed the new leaders who will uphold the airline's commitment to exceptional service, safety, and operational performance.
Former COO von Muehlen reflected on her tenure, acknowledging the hard work of frontline teams and the company's commitment to excellence, which has allowed Alaska Airlines to lead in industry standards. Berry echoed her sentiments about the importance of continuity in service and operational excellence as he steps into his new role alongside the newly appointed executives.
As Alaska Air Group turns its focus to international opportunities, including the upcoming Euroe launch in spring 2026, the transitions of leadership are set against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving airline market. Alaska Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, and Horizon Air serve myriad destinations across North America, Latin America, Asia, and soon Europe, establishing a robust and diverse travel network. With the support of its committed teams, Alaska Air Group is poised to continue providing excellent travel experiences as they embrace the next chapter in their corporate history.
For more details on these changes and the latest updates from Alaska Air Group, visit news.alaskaair.com.
Conclusion
The leadership changes at Alaska Air Group signal a proactive adaptation to industry demands and mark a strategic path forward as they aim to enhance customer service and operational integration across their airlines. Positioned for growth and innovation, Alaska Air Group is prepared to navigate the complexities of today’s aviation landscape while rewarding its workforce and delivering exceptional travel experiences to its valued guests.
Topics Travel）
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