United Hires American Airlines' President

United Airlines has appointed American Airlines’ president Scott Kirby into the same role as it rebuilds its leadership team.

Kirby will assume responsibility for United's operations, marketing, sales, alliances, network planning and revenue management, the airline said in a statement.

"Scott is a proven leader, whose deep airline experience and expertise will further accelerate our efforts to build the best airline in the industry," United chief executive Oscar Munoz said in the statement. "Scott's appointment, along with other recent leadership announcements, is the culmination of the formation of my senior leadership team."

Kirby has had a three-decade airline career with senior leadership roles at America West and US Airways, where he was named president in 2006.

"I am honoured to be joining United at this important and exciting time," Kirby said. "I see real opportunity to build on the airline's vast global network and, along with my 86,000 United teammates, create the world's best airline for employees, customers, and shareholders."

Kirby's appointment is effective immediately.