Former New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu has been tapped to lead Airlines for America (A4A), the trade group representing the nation’s largest airlines. Sununu will take over as president and CEO on Sept. 9, succeeding Nick Calio, who is stepping down after 15 years at the helm.
“I am honored to join Airlines for America during this critical moment for an aviation industry that supports over 10 million jobs and serves as a key economic driver in communities big and small across the country,” Sununu said in a statement.
As governor, Sununu built a reputation as a business-friendly Republican who oversaw reductions in business tax rates and the elimination of the state’s only personal income tax, the interest and dividends tax. During his tenure, New Hampshire was consistently ranked among the best states to live in, with high levels of economic opportunity.
A4A represents the nation’s largest passenger and cargo carriers, including American Airlines, Delta, United, Southwest, UPS Airlines, and FedEx Express. Its mission is to advocate for the airline industry before Congress, federal regulators, and the public.
Craig Stevens, a partner at the Washington, D.C.-based DCI Group, said Sununu is “the right person at the right time for Airlines for America.”
“As an engineer, a CEO, and someone who understands the machinery of government, Gov. Sununu brings a tremendous skill set to one of the most important sectors of the American economy,” Stevens said. “America’s airlines hear it from all sides—consumers, government, labor, and shareholders—so having a trusted trade association and association leader who can work with policymakers is critical to the long-term success of the aviation industry.”
But there is potential turbulence on the horizon for Sununu, particularly in the U.S. Senate.
The Republican is well known among Senate GOP colleagues, having considered a run in the past. He ultimately declined, even after receiving the public backing of President Donald Trump.
“It’s completely unappealing,” Sununu told The New York Times. “I see it as a step down.”
Still, the choice is drawing praise within the aviation industry.
“I’ve personally long admired Gov. Sununu, and now that he’s left politics, we’re honored to have him as the new president and CEO of A4A,” said A4A Board Chairman and United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby. “The airline industry is one of the most essential enablers of strong economic growth here in the U.S. and for connecting and sharing American culture and values around the world. Chris is absolutely the right leader for this crucial industry in the years to come.”
American Airlines CEO Robert Isom, vice chair of A4A’s board, said Sununu brings “strategic vision, operational expertise, and a knack for getting hard things done.” He added, “At this pivotal moment for U.S. 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 U.S. aviation continues to fuel the American economy.”
Sununu takes the job at a time of turmoil in the nation’s passenger air system. In the wake of several high-profile incidents, including a deadly collision between a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter and a passenger jet at Reagan National Airport, Congress allocated $12.5 billion for air traffic control modernization in the sweeping “One Big Beautiful Bill.”
“I look forward to working closely with our board, President Trump, and Secretary (Sean) Duffy, Congress, and other aviation stakeholders to support the ongoing investment and overhaul of our air traffic control infrastructure,” Sununu said.
While the announcement did not mention compensation, his predecessor, longtime A4A leader Nick Calio, was paid around $4.6 million in 2023.
“Chris Sununu is a once-in-a-generation communicator with a proven ability to build large networks and consensus,” said Jim Merrill, a veteran campaign and public affairs attorney. “The airline industry couldn’t have chosen a more qualified leader to stand for them and speak for their interests.”
