Star Alliance names Air Canada CEO as new chair

Star Alliance has named Air Canada’s president and CEO Michael Rousseau as the new chairperson of its chief executive board.

Rousseau has been elected by the alliance’s member airlines to a two-year term as board chair. He will be tasked with guiding “the strategic direction of the alliance”.

The alliance’s chief executive board includes the CEOs of all 25 member airlines. Rousseau succeeds United Airlines’ CEO Scott Kirby, who has spent four years in the role after being appointed in 2020.

Rousseau said: “I am looking forward to working with the board over the next two years to continue our progressive work in delivering a seamless customer experience.”

Star Alliance’s CEO Theo Panagiotoulias added: “I am delighted to welcome Michael Rousseau, one of the most seasoned CEOs on the board, as the new chairperson and look forward to working closely with him as we bring the renewed vision of the Alliance to fruition.”