Leadership Shake-Up: Alaska Air Group Appoints New Horizon CEO

H2: Leadership Changes at Alaska Air Group

Alaska Air Group has unveiled a new leadership structure, appointing Andy Schneider as the Chief Executive Officer and President of Horizon Air. This decision, announced on September 26, 2025, is part of a broader strategy involving several senior appointments across Alaska Airlines and its associated subsidiaries.

H2: New Roles and Experienced Leadership

Schneider is a long-standing member of the Alaska Air Group, boasting over 35 years of experience within the company. He succeeds Jason Berry, who is stepping into the role of Chief Operating Officer at Alaska Airlines. Previously, Schneider was the Senior Vice President of People at Alaska Airlines, where he led the carrier’s talent and cultural strategies. His background also includes operational roles at both Alaska and Horizon, such as Vice President of Inflight and Call Center Services.

H3: A Vision for Horizon Air

“I’m incredibly honored to be returning to Horizon after more than 14 years,” said Schneider. “The remarkable individuals at Horizon and their vital contributions to the communities we serve make this airline unique. I’m excited for what’s ahead as we build on the legacy established by the Horizon team.”

Berry, who previously led Horizon Air, will transition to the role of Chief Operating Officer for Alaska Airlines on November 3, 2025. He takes over from Constance von Muehlen, who is set to retire following nearly 15 years with Alaska. Von Muehlen played a crucial role in steering the airline through a transformative period, having joined the company in 2011 and becoming COO in 2021. She will remain available for advisory support until February 2026.

H3: Experience and Leadership in Aviation

Berry, a seasoned aviation professional with three decades of experience, has held various leadership roles across cargo, ground services, and regional operations. His extensive background includes positions at Air Canada, Cargolux, and McGee Air Services.

“This is a thrilling time for Alaska and Hawaiian Airlines,” Berry stated. “As we approach the next integration milestone—a single operating certificate—we are consolidating talented frontline teams dedicated to safety, customer service, and operational excellence.”

H2: Strategic Leadership Transitions

Ben Minicucci, Chief Executive of Alaska Air Group, commended von Muehlen’s contributions and emphasized the significance of these leadership changes. The adjustments align with the company’s goal of securing an operating certificate in collaboration with Hawaiian Airlines. “These transitions represent an exciting evolution for Alaska Air Group, setting the stage for our journey towards becoming a global premium airline,” Minicucci noted.

H3: A Year of Significant Changes

The leadership updates at Alaska Air Group follow several notable shifts within the industry this year. In July 2025, Alaska Airlines announced the promotion of Aaron Alter, its chief legal officer, to President. Earlier in the year, Hawaiian Airlines appointed airline veteran Jon Snook as its new chief executive, also part of its integration with Alaska. Additionally, Alaska Air Group appointed Diana Birkett Rakow to lead Hawaiian Airlines, making her the first woman to hold that position.

H2: Horizon Air’s Role and Fleet

For Horizon Air, Schneider’s appointment signifies a time of stability and extensive institutional knowledge. The regional airline is essential to Alaska Air Group’s network, connecting communities across the Pacific Northwest and beyond with major hubs. As Alaska Air Group integrates Hawaiian and pursues international growth, Horizon is expected to maintain its commitment to regional service.

H3: Modern Fleet for Enhanced Service

Horizon Air currently operates an all-Embraer 175 jet fleet after retiring its Bombardier Q400 turboprops in 2023. The 76-seat Embraer jets are well-suited for both short-haul and longer regional routes. With approximately 40 E175s in operation, these aircraft are flown by Horizon pilots under the Alaska Airlines brand and color scheme.

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