IAG, Willie Walsh

FlightGlobal interviewedIAGchief executive Willie Walsh for the June issue ofFlight Airline Business, before the UK had voted for Brexit andQatar Airwayshad increased its stake in the group. Walsh talked about plans for theBritish Airwaysparent asAer Linguswas settling in.

Dubai 5242UAH

Hainan Airlines, XIE Haoming

FlightGlobal spoke to Hainan Airlines’ then-president Xie Haoming for the September issue ofFlight Airline Business. He talked about the Chinese carrier’s efforts to find international growth amid the country’s slot restrictions. Xie has since been promoted to the role of chairman.

Southwest Airlines, Gary Kelly

FlightGlobal spoke to Southwest chief executive Gary Kelly for the October issue ofFlight Airline Business, as he tried to keep the carrier true to its fundamental beliefs while implementing change. He also faced uncertainties over contract ratifications for flight attendants and pilots.

Qantas, Alan Joyce

FlightGlobal spoke toQantaschief executive Alan Joyce for the April issue ofFlight Airline Businessas the carrier was nearing the announcement of record full-year profits amid its transformation programme. Growth expectations had to be reined in slightly as 2016 drew to a close.

KLM, Pieter Elbers

FlightGlobal spoke toKLMchief executive Pieter Elbers for the November issue ofFlight Airline Businessas he continued to find a profitable path for the Dutch carrier. He talks about looking for mutually beneficial ground in KLM’s sometimes difficult relationship withAir France.