American Airlines Cargo expands Elison’s role

American Airlines Cargo has expanded the role of Rick Elieson from president of cargo, to president cargo and vice president international operations. 

Elison will continue to lead both the cargo division and also the carrier’s international airport operations in 60 countries, taking over from Jim Butler, who was recently named senior vice president – airport operations and cargo.

The latter reorganized all airline operations last year to deliver better reliability, consistency, and safety. Elieson and the seven other officers on Butler’s team are now tasked with building “the most reliable operations in the business” said the carrier.

Butler explained: “Running a reliable operation is one of the best things we can do to provide value for our customers. With 80% of our cargo business in international markets, it is critical that the cargo and international divisions are closely aligned to ensure world-class service for our customers.” He added that Elieson had: “A track record of building collaborative and empowered teams and I am delighted to have him continue this work leading both divisions as president cargo and vice president international airport operations.”

Elieson said: “The culture of an organization has a direct impact on the service we deliver and this starts with teams who work and win together. I’m honoured to lead this work for our cargo and international airport operations to deliver incredible service for our customers and to create a place where team members are proud to work.”

American reported its best-ever operational metrics for both the 2019 holiday peak period and the entire fourth quarter of 2019, adding that the improvement has continued into 2020 with record-breaking operational results in January.