Alaska Air Group Announces Interim Leadership for Hawaiian Airlines Following Acquisition
Alaska Air Group has officially closed its acquisition of Hawaiian Holdings and announced the interim leadership team that will oversee Hawaiian Airlines operations during the transition to a single operating certificate.
With regulatory clearances now complete, both airlines will operate as one organization with separate airline operations until full integration is achieved.
Joe Sprague, the current Alaska Airlines regional president of Hawai‘i/Pacific, has been appointed CEO of Hawaiian Airlines. He will lead the airline until the FAA grants the single operating certificate. “We have a unique, once-in-a-generation opportunity to combine two incredible companies with aligned values and 90+ year legacies of serving and connecting local communities,” said Sprague. “I am deeply honored to work alongside these strong leaders from Hawaiian Airlines to lead the airline’s people, operations, and brand through this transition while sustaining our commitments to safety and service.”
The interim Honolulu leadership team includes several senior executives from Hawaiian Airlines, boasting nearly 65 years of combined experience in the industry. Key members are:
- Shannon Okinaka – EVP, Administration
- Robin Kobayashi – SVP, Human Resources
- Jim Landers – SVP, Tech Ops
- Lokesh Amaranayaka – VP, Airport Operations and In-Flight
- Terry Hill – Managing Director, Safety
- Alisa Onishi – Director, Brand and Culture
Additionally, Daniel Chun, regional VP of Hawai‘i for Alaska Airlines, will oversee community relations and sales efforts.
Hawaiian Airlines President and CEO Peter Ingram will step down following the transaction close, marking a new chapter for both airlines. Sprague emphasized the shared commitment to excellence, stating, “Among Alaska, Hawaiian, and Horizon Air, we have more than 230 years of history flying guests and serving communities.”
The acquisition is expected to enhance connectivity across the Pacific and U.S. mainland, providing more travel options and strengthening job opportunities while supporting local communities and environmental initiatives.
