JetBlue Replaces Neeleman as CEO, Promotes Barger

Low-fare airline JetBlue Airways appointed president Dave Barger as its new chief executive, effective immediately.

Barger, 49, will replace David Neeleman, JetBlue's founder and chief executive since 1998.

Barger will retain his role as president, while Neeleman will be non-executive chairman of the board focusing on JetBlue's long-term vision and strategy.

Neeleman characterized the change as "a natural evolution" of the carrier's leadership structure.

Barger joined JetBlue as president and chief operating officer shortly after Neeleman founded the airline in 1998.

JetBlue operates more than 575 flights daily to 52 destinations.