Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air Announce Key Leadership Changes

Alaska Air Group has revealed significant leadership changes at both Alaska Airlines and its regional subsidiary Horizon Air. Effective November 3, 2025, Jason Berry will transition from the role of President of Horizon Air to Chief Operating Officer (COO) of Alaska Airlines. He succeeds Constance von Muelhon, who has served in the position since 2021 and will retire in February 2026, remaining in an advisory capacity during the transition. Andy Schneider, currently the Senior Vice President of People at Alaska Airlines, will take over as President and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Horizon Air.

These strategic appointments aim to enhance collaboration between Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air as they navigate a complex operational landscape following Alaska’s recent acquisition of Hawaiian Airlines. The leadership reshuffle underscores the company’s commitment to internal promotion, leveraging existing talent to maintain continuity and institutional knowledge.

Leadership Transition and Future Challenges

Jason Berry, an industry veteran with extensive experience, including his previous leadership role at Horizon Air, will step into the COO position. His transition is designed to facilitate a seamless handover and ensure operational stability. Constance von Muelhon’s ongoing advisory role will further support this process, allowing Berry to benefit from her wealth of experience as Alaska Airlines continues to evolve.

Andy Schneider brings over 35 years of experience at Alaska Airlines to her new role as President and CEO of Horizon Air. Her long-standing tenure at the company positions her well to lead Horizon through its integration with Alaska Airlines while maintaining service quality.

As Alaska Airlines integrates Hawaiian Airlines, the company is working to obtain a single operating certificate, adding operational complexities. This merger brings together diverse fleets, including Airbus A321neos, Airbus A330s, Boeing 717s, and Boeing 787s, marking Alaska’s entry into long-haul operations. Historically focused on domestic routes with a fleet exclusively comprised of Boeing 737s, this shift represents a significant expansion for the airline.

Implications for Employees and Customers

The leadership changes are designed to minimize disruption for employees. Alaska Airlines emphasizes that these planned successions are intended to provide stability, with both Berry and Schneider recognized as familiar figures within the organization. This approach aims to ensure a smooth transition as they take on their new responsibilities.

For customers, the critical test will be operational consistency, especially as Alaska Airlines prepares for the winter and summer travel seasons of 2026. The airline’s operational playbook typically includes tight turnarounds, high aircraft utilization, and strong regional connectivity. If the new leadership can maintain these operational rhythms, Alaska Airlines is likely to uphold its reputation for service quality across its core West Coast routes.

As part of its expansion, Alaska Airlines plans to introduce new Boeing 787 routes to Europe, intensifying competition with Delta Air Lines, which has announced its own new flights to key destinations, including Rome and Barcelona. With Alaska Airlines aiming to establish a foothold in long-haul markets, the competition is expected to become even more pronounced as both airlines vie for market share.

In summary, the leadership changes at Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air reflect a strategic focus on internal talent and operational continuity. As the company navigates a new chapter following its merger with Hawaiian Airlines, the emphasis on experienced leaders is likely to play a crucial role in addressing the challenges ahead.