Hawaiian Airlines today announced that Diana Birkett Rakow will succeed Joe Sprague as CEO of Hawaiian Airlines next month when he retires.

Birkett Rakow, who is currently serving as Alaska Airlines’ senior vice president of public affairs and sustainability, will take over for Sprague on Oct. 29 and will be based in Honolulu, the second largest hub for Alaska Airlines. Sprague will continue to remain on the Hawaiian Airlines board.

Birkett Rakow will continue to report to Ben Minicucci, CEO of Alaska Air Group, and remain on the company’s Executive Committee. Her new responsibilities will include the long-term performance and advancement of the Hawaiian Airlines brand and Alaska Air Group’s business in Hawaii.

Her promotion and other leadership changes follow a transition plan that has

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