United Airlines names acting CEO with chief on medical leave

United Airlines has named a new acting CEO after its recently appointed chief took medical leave after suffering a heart attack. 

The company said its Vice President and General Counsel Brett Hart would take over the reigns from Oscar Munoz, who suffered a heart attack on Oct. 15.  

Munoz was appointed to the post atop the Chicago-based airline on Sept. 8 in a shake up United admitted was related to a federal investigation into allegations his predecessor offered flights to a small town destination to win favor from a New Jersey state official.  

{mosads}United said Hart would would provide a steady hand at the helm of the company, despite the recent executive turmoil and the ongoing federal investigation. 

“Brett has taken on increasing responsibility beyond general counsel over the last few years in the operations and customer facing areas of the company,” United Board of Directors Chairman Henry Meyer said in a statement. “I am confident in his ability to continue to implement the company’s strategy and Oscar’s mission of bringing United’s people together around the shared purpose of becoming the best airline for our customers and employees.” 

Hart pledged to follow through on Munoz’ promise to focus on passenger service after taking over in the midst of the federal probe. 

“Oscar’s agenda is focused on customer service, teamwork and innovation and I, along with the executive team, will continue to move quickly to implement it,” he said. “We believe strongly that we can continue to make steady progress on increasing shareholder value by working together to deliver a great product to our customers.”