Industry veteran Robert Agnew steps up to take over as chairman of Atlas Air

Atlas Air Worldwide has elected Robert Agnew (pictured) as its new chairman.

Currently president and chief executive of aviation consultancy Morten Beyer & Agnew, Mr Agnew will replace Frederick McCorkle who has been three years in the post and will continue as a director.

Mr Agnew began his aviation career in 1980 as director of charter and government sales at Northwest Airlines, after serving in the US Air Force.

After 12 years, he moved to World Airways as senior vice-president for marketing and sales, before two years later moving on to found Morten Beyer & Agnew.

He joined the board of Atlas Air in 2004.

Outgoing chairman Mr McCorkle said the appointment demonstrated the carrier’s commitment to “refreshing” the board.

“Bob’s service on the board, most recently as chair of the audit committee, and his years in aviation and marketing consulting bring an ideal combination of finance, commercial and international business expertise to this role,” he said.

In response, Mr Agnew said his predecessor’s impact had been “evident”, adding that the carrier had diversified and grown “significantly” during Mr McCorkle’s tenure.

“I am honored to follow in his footsteps as Atlas Air continues to capitalise on the strong foundation we have built, and as we continue to grow our business for our customers and shareholders.”