America West Airlines today announced
the election of Patrick T. Sakole as vice president of safety.  Sakole will
oversee the Airline`s safety and regulatory compliance programs.
 
“Pat brings to America West Airlines a wealth of safety and operational
experience that will serve us well in enhancing both regulatory compliance and
system safety,” said Gil Mook, executive vice president, operations group and
chief operating officer.

Sakole has more than 30 years` experience in managing large-scale aviation
operations, most recently with the Vinnell Corporation in Fairfax, Va., where
he directed maintenance, repair and management of U.S. Air Force assets in the
Middle East.  Prior to joining Vinnell, Sakole served 29 years with the U.S.
Air Force, attaining the rank of colonel.  Sakole`s military background
includes serving as chief safety officer for USAF aircraft operations, and
combat roles in both the Persian Gulf conflict and Vietnam War.
 
Sakole holds a master`s degree in business administration/personnel
management from Central Michigan University and a bachelor of arts degree in
economics from Belmont Abbey College in Belmont, N.C.
 
America West Airlines, the nation`s ninth largest carrier, serves more
than 90 destinations in the U.S., Canada and Mexico.  America West Airlines is
a wholly owned subsidiary of America West Holdings Corporation (NYSE: AWA), an
aviation and travel services company with 1998 sales of $2.0 billion.
 
This press release, as well as releases issued in the past year by America
West Holdings and its affiliates, can be accessed on the America West Internet
site at http://www.americawest.com.

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