Emerald Airlines appoints Keith Butler as incoming CEO

Emerald Airlines has appointed Keith Butler as its CEO, who will take up the role in March this year. He will succeed Emerald Airlines’ current CEO and founder, Conor McCarthy, who will take the position of Executive Chairman.

Prior to joining Emerald Airlines, Butler spent five years leading CAE Parc Aviation. He has also held multiple senior management positions at Aer Lingus, including the role of Chief Planning and Strategy Officer.

Conor McCarthy, Executive Chairman, Emerald Airlines, looks forward to Butler’s arrival: “With Keith’s background in Commercial, Planning and Strategy, alongside his capabilities in driving growth and innovation, he is extremely well positioned to lead the next chapter in the evolution of Emerald Airlines.

“Keith brings an unmatched experience and expertise to our business and has a proven track record as an established leader within the industry – exactly what is needed to propel Emerald Airlines to its next stage of growth.”

As Executive Chairman, McCarthy intends to focus on strategic opportunities in the sector and will work closely with their partner airlines in IAG, particularly Aer Lingus and British Airways.

Butler is “delighted” to be joining Emerald Airlines: “I look forward to leading the team who have delivered on Emerald’s successful start-up and building on the solid foundations that have already been established. In the months ahead, I will work closely with them to drive the business forward, increasing routes, passenger numbers and profitability,” he said.