United Airlines has recently announced top management changes, as it prepares to transition leadership to younger executives.

In a statement, the Chicago-based airline said its current Chief Executive Officer Oscar Munoz, will transition to the role of executive chairman effective May 2020 as J. Scott Kirby, current United Airlines President, will succeed Munoz as CEO.

"With United in a stronger position than ever, now is the right time to begin the process of passing the baton to a new leader," Munoz said.

"One of my goals as CEO was to put in place a successful leadership transition for United Airlines. I brought Scott to United three years ago, and I am confident that there is no one in the world better equipped to lead United to even greater heights," he added.

"It has been the honour of my career to lead the 95,000 dedicated professionals who serve United's customers every day. I look forward to continuing to work closely with Scott in the months ahead and supporting the company's ongoing success in my new role."

Kirby was recruited to United Airlines by Munoz in August 2016, after a three-decade career in the commercial airline business. His appointment reflects a commitment from Munoz and the Board to preserve leadership continuity and demonstrates confidence in the airline's strategy and current trajectory.

Former CEO to serve as Executive Chairman

"I am honoured to be named the next CEO of United and to succeed Oscar, whose leadership has been truly transformational for United Airlines," Kirby said. "I look forward to working with Oscar, the Board, our established leadership team and every United employee as we drive forward our proven strategy and focus on being the airline customers choose to fly and return to time and again."

Munoz will serve as Executive Chairman for a one-year term and will continue to work closely with Kirby, the Board and the United team in shaping United's employee and customer-centric culture. He will also lead the company's Board and continue to engage on behalf of United with a range of external stakeholders.

As part of this transition, United's current Chairman, Jane Garvey, will retire from the Board in May 2020 after more than a decade of exceptional service, including serving as Chairman since May 2018. At the request of the Board, Garvey agreed to remain in her role for a year beyond the Board's mandatory retirement age.

All the changes will take effect following the company's annual meeting of shareholders, scheduled for May 20, 2020.