Former New Hampshire governor Chris Sununu appointed CEO of Airlines For America

"Chris has consistently demonstrated strategic vision, operational expertise, and a knack for getting hard things done. At this pivotal moment for US aviation, he’s the right leader for Airlines for America, and I look forward to working with him to advance aviation safety, modernize our air traffic control system, and ensure US aviation continues to fuel the American economy."

One of Sununu's main tasks will be advocating for upgrades to the nation’s air traffic control (ATC) system. The need for modernization has grown after recent safety incidents highlighted issues with outdated technology that relies on radar systems from the 1970s. The Department of Transportation has outlined a plan aiming to overhaul ATC by 2028 by building new control centers and updating key infrastructure across thousands of sites.

Sununu expressed support for these efforts: “I look forward to working closely with our Board, President Trump, and Secretary Duffy, Congress, and other aviation stakeholders to support the ongoing investment and overhaul of our air traffic control infrastructure,” he said. “Strengthening and modernizing our system is vital for making the safest mode of transportation even safer and more efficient and maintaining the global competitiveness of the US airline industry.”

Founded in 1936 as Air Transport Association of America and based in Washington D.C., A4A represents ten full member airlines—including Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines—and one associate member. The group plays an active role in shaping national aviation policy related to competition, taxation, environmental matters, infrastructure investment initiatives such as Sustainable Aviation Fuel adoption programs (SAF), and advocacy against increasing industry taxes.

The organization states its purpose is to "foster a business and regulatory environment that ensures safe and secure air transportation and enables US airlines to flourish, stimulating economic growth locally, nationally, and globally."