Airline cargo alliance SkyTeam Cargo has appointed Omar Talal Hariri as the new chairperson of its executive board.

Hariri, who is CEO of Saudia Cargo and Saudi Arabian Logistics, will replace Delta Cargo vice president Shawn Cole, who has held the position for three years.

The appointment was endorsed by the SkyTeam Cargo Executive Board, which is comprised of the cargo executives of the 12 members and oversees SkyTeam Cargo’s global strategy.

“Chairing the executive board of SkyTeam Cargo, the largest alliance in the air cargo industry, will be an honour,” said Hariri. “I would like to thank SkyTeam Cargo and its members for giving me this opportunity and Shawn Cole for his contributions during the past three years.

“Moving forward, we will continue to focus on enhancing our technologically driven operational and network capabilities to ensure an outclass experience for customers.”

Cole commented: “It has been a pleasure serving as chairman of the cargo executive board. During my time as chairman, we focused on building connectivity, sourcing with economies of scale and connecting with our customers.

“Our true character was revealed in the face of the unprecedented challenges brought upon us by Covid-19. I know that Omar Hariri will serve our alliance well as we continue to navigate through the crisis, rebuild network connectivity and contribute to support the transportation of vaccines.”