Atlas Air vice president of strategy Conor Brannigan has died after battling cancer, prompting industry-wide tributes for a leader whose 20-year career spanned Aer Lingus, Etihad, Cargolux, Magma Aviation and Atlas Air.
The air cargo industry has been mourning the loss of much-loved Conor Brannigan after a brave battle with cancer.
Brannigan was held in high regard across the air cargo industry, not just for his hard work and dedication, but also for his affable nature and sense of humour.
During his almost 20 years in air cargo, he held several senior roles, most recently in the role of vice president of strategy at Atlas Air. He also spent three years at Magma Aviation, ending his time at the freighter airline as chief executive, a year at Cargolux, five years at Etihad and seven years at Aer Lingus.
Brannigan leaves behind a wife and two children.
Following news of his passing, colleagues from across the industry paid their respects.
"The air cargo industry has lost one of its very best,” wrote Martin Drew, chief transformation officer at Atlas Air. "And I’ve lost a dear friend."
"I had the privilege of knowing Conor for over 15 years and working with him at both Etihad and, most recently, at Atlas Air.
"It’s hard to put into words what he meant to those around him. He was brilliant at his job, with aviation running through his veins. His insight and professionalism were second to none – but it was the way he carried himself, with genuine warmth and humility, that truly set him apart.
"Conor was also one of the funniest people I’ve ever known, with a sharp wit and quick humour. Everyone who met him, liked him. He had that rare gift of making people feel at ease, and for those who knew him well, he was great fun on a night out too. That’s why he wasn’t just respected across the industry – he was loved."
Magma Aviation said his leadership was defined not by "loud declarations, but by clarity of vision, steady conviction, and an ability to lift others around him".
"He guided teams through transformation, brought people together with purpose, and left behind a culture shaped by trust, integrity, and forward thinking.
"He believed in aviation’s potential to connect more than just place,s and that belief lived in every decision he made. Across the halls of boardrooms, on the ground with operational teams, and through every conversation with customers and colleagues, Conor made people feel seen, heard, and valued."
Atlas Air also marked his passing: "He brought a rare combination of professionalism, warmth, and integrity that touched everyone who had the privilege of working with him.
"Above all, Conor was incredibly proud of his family and was a devoted husband and loving father. We keep his family and friends in our thoughts during this incredibly difficult time."
