oneworld CEO Rob Gurney to depart alliance
Airline alliance oneworld announced that its Chief Executive Officer Rob Gurney will depart the organization on July 1, 2023. Gurney has led the alliance since 2016.
Rob Gurney, Chief Executive Officer of the oneworld airline alliance, has announced his intention to leave the alliance's management team effective July 1, 2023. Gurney joined oneworld in 2016 and has overseen its expansion, including the addition of Royal Air Maroc, Alaska Airlines, and future member Oman Air.
During his tenure, Gurney was credited with navigating the alliance through recent industry challenges. His leadership also focused on sustainability initiatives, with member airlines committing to a target of 10% sustainable aviation fuel usage across the alliance by 2030. The alliance also launched 'oneworld connect' to offer new airlines access to its network.
Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Akbar Al Baker, who serves as oneworld Chairman, expressed gratitude for Gurney's leadership. The search for Gurney's successor will be led by American Airlines Chief Commercial Officer Vasu Raja. Gurney and the oneworld management team will report to Raja until a new CEO is appointed.
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom emphasized the importance of seamless travel experiences between oneworld member airlines. The alliance, which recently relocated its global headquarters to Fort Worth, Texas, was recognized as the Best Airline Alliance by Business Traveler USA and Global Traveler in 2022.