By the Caribbean Journal staff

Air France has named a new chief executive officer: Anne Rigail.

Rigail, who had been serving as executive vice president – customer at Air France, will replace Benjamin Smith, who was appointed acting CEO of Air France through the end of the year.

“I would like to thank Benjamin Smith for the outstanding work he has accomplished during his time as acting CEO Air France,” said Anne-Marie Couderc, Chairwoman of the Air France-KLM Board of Directors. “Under his leadership, our airline has rapidly taken decisive steps, renewing constructive social dialogue, and proposing a new executive governance structure as seen with the arrival of Anne Rigail.”

Rigail officially assumes the role this week, according to a statement from the company.

The Board of Directors approved her appointment last week.

“I am delighted that Anne Rigail is to become the new CEO of Air France,” said Benjamin Smith. “Anne is a strong professional in the airline industry. Throughout her career, she has always paid particular attention to employees while implementing the many projects and transformations she has led, and placed the customer at the heart of everything she does. 

Air France has been expanding its Caribbean footprint in recent years, including new flights between the U.S. and the Caribbean out of Atlanta.

— CJ