Virgin Atlantic has unveiled its succession plan for the airline’s top leadership, confirming that Corneel Koster will succeed Shai Weiss as Chief Executive Officer from 1 January 2026. Weiss, who has led the airline for seven transformative years, will step down on 31 December 2025, leaving behind a legacy of innovation and resilience.
Corneel Koster, who re-joined Virgin Atlantic in 2019 as Board Member and Chief Customer Officer, expanded his responsibilities in 2020 to Chief Customer and Operating Officer. In this role, he has been central to running a safe, reliable operation while maintaining Virgin Atlantic’s signature customer experience. Koster played a pivotal role in guiding the airline through the pandemic, ensuring operational stability, leading the introduction of the award-winning A330neo aircraft, and spearheading digital operational transformation initiatives.
With a career spanning over three decades in the aviation industry, Koster brings extensive operational and commercial experience, having held senior roles not only at Virgin Atlantic but also with Delta Air Lines, Aeroméxico, and KLM. His prior tenure at Virgin Atlantic includes serving as Director of Operations, Safety, and Security from 2010 to 2013, further deepening his expertise in airline operations and safety management.
Ed Bastian, CEO of Delta Air Lines, praised Weiss and welcomed Koster: “Shai has been a valued partner and friend, working with us to build a leading trans-Atlantic joint venture. We thank him for his leadership and commitment. We look forward to continuing our relationship with Virgin Atlantic under Corneel’s guidance as we transform the travel experience in the years ahead.”
Reflecting on his departure, Weiss said: “I leave Virgin Atlantic full of pride, having played a part in its bright red history. Together, we’ve navigated the pandemic and emerged faster, stronger, and more resilient. Corneel is the ideal successor—he knows what it takes to drive Virgin Atlantic forward and will continue to innovate for our people and our guests, making them smile every step of the way.”
Koster expressed both gratitude and ambition as he prepared to take the helm: “Virgin Atlantic has always held a special place in my heart, so it is an incredible privilege to become CEO. From day one, we’ve strived to deliver the best experience for our customers and people, guided by the challenger spirit instilled by Richard Branson. I am determined to carry that spirit forward, delivering value for our customers, employees, shareholders, and communities, while ensuring Virgin Atlantic remains the airline that dares to do things differently.”
As Virgin Atlantic prepares for its next chapter, Koster’s appointment signals continuity, operational excellence, and a renewed focus on customer experience, positioning the airline for sustained growth and innovation in the competitive international aviation landscape.
