UK-based Airline Confirms Leadership Succession for 2026

United Kingdom – long-haul airline Virgin Atlantic has announced a leadership succession plan that will see Corneel Koster appointed as Chief Executive Officer, effective 1 January 2026. He will succeed Shai Weiss, who has led the airline through a period of significant transformation and will step down on 31 December 2025.

• Corneel Koster, currently serving as Chief Customer and Operating Officer, has been named CEO effective 1 January 2026
• Koster rejoined Virgin Atlantic in 2019, previously holding leadership roles at Delta Air Lines, Aeroméxico, KLM, and Virgin Atlantic
• He led the airline’s digital transformation, customer service strategy, and operational integration of the A330neo fleet

Statements

• “Shai has done an outstanding job over the past seven years. I’m grateful for his vision, passion and commitment … I’m delighted to welcome Corneel as CEO.” — Sir Richard Branson, Founder
• “Shai has done a remarkable job steering the airline through the pandemic … we’re delighted that Corneel will be picking up the baton.” — Peter Norris, Chair of Virgin Atlantic
• “I want to congratulate Corneel on his appointment … he knows what it takes to drive Virgin Atlantic to the next level.” — Shai Weiss, CEO
• “It’s an incredible privilege to take up the role of CEO … I’m determined we carry that spirit forward.” — Corneel Koster, Chief Customer and Operating Officer

Source: Virgin Atlantic