Etihad appoints Chief Strategy and Planning Officer

Etihad Airways, the national airline of the United Arab Emirates, has announced the appointment of Kevin Knight as the airline’s Chief Strategy and Planning Officer. 

Based in Etihad’s head office in Abu Dhabi, Mr Knight will be responsible for a range of key business areas, including pricing, capacity and revenue management, route and network planning and aircraft acquisitions. He will also lead Etihad Crystal Cargo. 

James Hogan, Etihad Airways’ Chief Executive Officer, said: “This is an important role, and one that shapes our overall business strategy and growth plans.

“Kevin will play a lead role in guiding Etihad through the next stage of its business transformation, including strengthening the airline’s strategic alliances and acquisitions, which are pivotal to the long-term, continued success of our airline.” 

Mr Knight has more than 30 years’ experience in the airline industry, including business development, strategic planning and operations. 

He joins Etihad from United Airlines, where he worked for 17 years, the last four as Senior Vice President Planning. He previously held roles with Northwest Airlines, where he was Director of International Planning, and Republic Airlines. 

Mr Knight holds a Masters of Business Administration (MBA) degree from the University of Utah, and a Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration from Westminster College, Utah.