Longtime JetBlue CEO Robin Hayes has announced his retirement, and he will be succeeded by airline president Joanna Geraghty. Hayes, who is 57 years old, will step down on February 12th due to health reasons. In a statement, Hayes expressed his love for the industry but acknowledged that the challenges and pressures of his job have taken a toll on his health and well-being. He believes it is time to prioritize his health and focus on his well-being.
Geraghty, who has been with JetBlue for nearly 20 years, will become the first woman to lead a major U.S. airline. She expressed her pride in the accomplishments of the company over the past two decades and her excitement to build on that momentum. Geraghty is determined to execute the airline’s strategic initiatives, return to profitable growth, and generate sustainable value for shareholders and stakeholders.
Hayes has been the CEO of JetBlue since early 2015. He joined the airline in 2008 after working at British Airways as the executive vice president for the Americas. During his time at JetBlue, Hayes led the charge to expand and grow the airline beyond being a small, quirky boutique carrier. He played a pivotal role in developing and expanding the airline’s Mint business-class product and establishing its first routes to Europe.
Hayes also spearheaded efforts to grow the airline through partnerships and acquisitions. In 2016, JetBlue attempted to acquire Virgin America but was outbid by Alaska Airlines. However, in 2020, JetBlue and American Airlines announced the Northeast Alliance, a close codeshare and frequent flyer partnership. This alliance defined the airlines’ respective domestic networks for the next two years. Unfortunately, the partnership was dismantled in 2023 after a judge ruled that it was anti-competitive.
Hayes’ departure comes at a crucial time for JetBlue as it awaits the decision in an antitrust trial challenging its planned acquisition of Spirit Airlines. JetBlue argued that the merger was necessary to compete effectively with the dominant “big 4” airlines in the U.S. market. However, the Department of Justice argued that removing Spirit from the market would cause fares to rise. Regardless of the outcome, it will be Geraghty’s responsibility to lead the airline forward.
Geraghty has been actively involved in the day-to-day operation of JetBlue and strategic planning. She has been increasingly presented as the face of the airline in recent years, engaging with media, partners, and stakeholders. Geraghty’s involvement in inaugural flights and the airline’s transatlantic expansion demonstrates her leadership capabilities.
Prior to joining JetBlue, Geraghty worked as an attorney and was a partner at the law firm Holland & Knight. Her legal background has undoubtedly contributed to her success and understanding of the aviation industry.
In conclusion, Robin Hayes’ retirement marks the end of an era for JetBlue. His successor, Joanna Geraghty, will become the first woman to lead a major U.S. airline. Geraghty’s extensive experience with the company and her determination to continue its growth and success make her a fitting choice for the role. JetBlue will face significant challenges in the coming years, but under Geraghty’s leadership, the airline has a promising future ahead.