American Airlines is set to make management changes and hire more senior staff as network planning head Brian Znotlin is expected to retire. The carrier already made changes in August 2026 in response to pressure from key competitors, as Forbes reported. Many of the airline’s changes have aimed to expand its brand presence.
Upcoming management changes
American Airlines management is facing another shakeup in its latest performance review. CEO Robert Isom admitted that there was a “meaningful gap” between where the airline should be and its current performance in the aviation market.
The carrier has struggled to make enough profit to compete with other U.S. airlines. With numbers that lag behind Delta Air Lines and United Airlines, American Airlines has faced criticism from its union over management, Reuters reported.
They commented that:
“American’s shares are down more than 21% so far this year, compared with a gain of 10% for Delta and an 11% drop by United. The benchmark S&P 500 is up nearly 13% on the year.”
The company recently appointed Nick Anderson as senior vice president of network planning, effective Nov. 1, 2026. Nick Anderson previously served as vice president of commercial planning and performance and has been with the company for nearly two decades; he will now lead network coordination and flight operations.
Margaret Mueller has been designated as managing partner and vice president to oversee the carriers’ Chicago market starting in late November.
Improving performance
American Airlines introduced plans to expand operations at Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), including 100 new daily flights to more than 75 destinations.
Despite this, the carrier has reduced its hubs over the past year, according to Forbes, and has focused more on operational efficiency, leading it to cut traffic.
Further management arrangements show that senior manager Brian Znotlin is retiring after seven years at American Airlines. Another management role will be filled by Chris Kelly Singley as vice president of commercial communications, advertising, and sponsorships.
American Airlines is continuing to make several changes to its management in a bid to improve performance and profitability.
What do you think about the new management arrangements?
