You’re all kidding yourselves if you think he’s gone. Seeing his mum and an Antarctic cruise?- Just a short vacation. He isn’t going to b#gger off to a Caribbean island or anything else- he’ll still be a presence in aviation. But where?
Some practical possibilities first:
CEO of British Airways perhaps? God knows they need the help. Sean Doyle, watch your backside.
Or taking it up another level- IAG? Luis Gallego is doing a decent job but you never know.
Or even higher- a position with IATA? Willie Walsh may need to watch out.
Some unlikely thoughts:
Aer Lingus. This is where he came from and he may ache to go back- but really it’s a small fish. But, then again, a lunch with Michael O’Leary could always change the game.
Any Middle East Airline- the traditional “next stop” of airline CEO’s. For obvious personal reasons, no chance.
Cathay Pacific. A basket case and getting worse. But the Chinese hate Swire and are doing their damndest to ruin the place so Ronald Lam may face competition.
Virgin Australia. Jane Hrdlicka seems secure but Bain capital? Now there is a position he might like!
Of course there could always be:
Bonza. With his capital he could probably BUY the outfit outright. Tim Jordan be on guard.
Beond. A flight of fancy but maybe a safe haven for his money.
Rex. Now here’s a thing- Rex. A call to Lim Kim Hai in Singapore could find John Sharp rueing his past comments on Qantas.
Or, shudder, a board position with CASA?
Any suggestions