IndiGo Co-founder Rakesh Gangwal named Chair of Southwest Airlines board

Southwest Airlines has appointed Rakesh Gangwal as the new independent Chair of its Board of Directors, signalling a fresh chapter for the airline’s leadership. Alongside Gangwal, Southwest has named new chairs for its Board Committees, reinforcing its strategic direction. Lisa Atherton will chair the Compensation Committee, Douglas Brooks will lead the Audit Committee, David Hess will continue as Chair of the Safety and Operations Committee, Chris Reynolds will oversee the Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, and Gregg Saretsky will serve as Chair of the Finance Committee.

Gangwal said, “We are embarking on the next era of change at Southwest as we build upon its many successes and storied past. Our critical priority as a newly constituted Board is to come together to work closely with Bob Jordan and the rest of the management team to return the carrier to superior financial performance.”

Bob Jordan, President, Chief Executive Officer, and Vice Chairman of the Board, said, “On behalf of the entire Company, I look forward to working with our new Board as we execute our plan and deliver for our Shareholders. I especially want to thank our People for their unwavering commitment to each other and to providing exceptional service to our Customers. Our People are at the Heart of Southwest’s Culture and what separates us from the competition.”