The British Airways chief executive, Alex Cruz, is stepping down from the airline with immediate effect.
The airline’s parent group, International Airlines Group (IAG), said on Monday that Cruz will be replaced by Sean Doyle from Aer Lingus.
IAG boss, Luis Gallego, said that the sector is currently facing “the worst crisis faced in our industry”.
“We’re navigating the worst crisis faced in our industry and I’m confident these internal promotions will ensure IAG is well placed to emerge in a strong position,” said Gallego.
He added: “I want to thank Alex for all that he has done at British Airways. He worked tirelessly to modernise the airline in the years leading up to the celebration of its 100th anniversary. Since then, he has led the airline through a particularly demanding period and has secured restructuring agreements with the vast majority of employees.”
“Sean Doyle has extensive experience at British Airways having worked there for 20 years before moving to head Aer Lingus nearly two years ago where he has done an excellent job. I am confident that will continue at British Airways.”
Doyle, British Airways’ new boss, worked at the airline 20 years ago before moving to the Irish carrier, Aer Lingus.
British Airways has faced criticism from unions and MPs as the group has undergone a drastic cost-cutting scheme and cut thousands of jobs.
A total of 13,000 employees are expected to lose their roles at the airline this year.