Posted on: Wednesday, November 3, 2004

Aloha Airlines names new chief

By Catherine E. Toth
Advertiser Staff Writer

David A. Banmiller, a top executive with Air Jamaica, will replace Glenn Zander as president and CEO of Aloha Airlines.

Aloha Airgroup Inc., the parent company of Aloha Airlines, said today Banmiller will take over the top post on Nov. 14.

Banmiller, 60, has been in aviation for more than three decades. In his latest position as Air Jamaica's executive vice president and chief operating officer he oversees day-to-day operation of the Caribbean airline.

Banmiller also has served as president and CEO of Sun Country Airlines, Pan American World Airways and Sun Jet. He was also president and chief operating officer for Air Cal, which was acquired by American Airlines.

"In my many years in the industry, I have seen the Aloha name and reputation held in such high regard, and I am personally honored to now be part of this fine organization," Banmiller said in a statement.

Han H. "Sonny" Ching, Aloha Airgroup's chairman, said in a press release that Banmiller "possesses the depth and industry experience to lead our company and its workforce during these challenging times."

Rising fuel costs have cut into the company's revenue this year. Though revenue at Aloha Airgroup Inc. rose 10.1 percent in the second quarter, the gain was offset by a 37.6 percent rise in fuel costs, the company reported in September. The result was a loss of $963,000 for the second quarter.

It was the third consecutive quarter in which the privately held company experienced losses.

Zander resigned as the company's president and CEO on Oct. 5 to help care for his wife, who has a rare form of cancer.

Zander, who ran the airlines since May 1994, remains vice chairman of the board of Aloha Airgroup Inc.

Banmiller's appointment ended a nationwide search conducted by Korn/Ferry International.

During that time, Brenda F. Cutwright, Aloha's executive vice president and COO, was acting president and CEO.

Reach Catherine E. Toth at 535-8103 or ctoth@honoluluadvertiser.com.