Alaska Airlines has appointed Jeff Butler as new vice president of inflight and call center services.

He succeeds Andy Schneider, who was recently named vice president of people.

Butler is a veteran of 34 years at Alaska Air, and was most recently interim vice president of guest and inflight services at Virgin America.

He leads flight attendant teams at both Virgin America and Alaska Airlines as well as the call center functions.

"Jeff is an accomplished and well-respected leader known for doing the right thing, while delivering results and creating a positive work environment," said Ben Minicucci, Virgin America CEO and Alaska Airlines’ president and chief operating officer.

"We’re confident his experience at both Alaska and Virgin America will help us advance our integration and get off to a solid start as we work toward becoming one airline."

Butler joined Alaska in the 1980s and held various positions starting as editorial assistant, sales agent and eventually progressing to managing director of inflight operations.

Related News Stories :   Alaska Airlines gains single FAA operating certificate for Virgin America integration     Commission flows as agents book 2011 cruises     US confirms tightened travel testing     Mystery over Harry’s Vegas strip     FRHI Hotels launches new China focused brand     Cruise passengers rescued after tour boat sinks