Fortson takes up Asia leadership role with American Airlines
Russ Fortson has taken up to the position of director Asia operations for American Airlines, responsible for airport operations in Hong Kong, Beijing, Tokyo, Seoul and Shanghai.
Fortson joins American from oneworld partner Cathay Pacific serving as manager customer services and product development, overseeing airport ground products and services worldwide for both Cathay Pacific and its subsidiary Dragonair.
Currently based in Hong Kong, Fortson has previously lived in Los Angeles, Anchorage, Bangkok, Riyadh, San Francisco and Vancouver during his career with Cathay Pacific.
In addition, Fortson is an active member of IATA industry forums and other notable industry bodies.
From Hong Kong, Fortson will direct American’s Asian airport operations, with a current total of ten daily departures from the continent.
American’s footprint in the Asia-Pacific region has grown significantly over the past 18 months with the addition of new routes from Shanghai, Hong Kong and Seoul to Dallas.
In 2015 American will also launch a new service from Beijing to Dallas, subject to regulatory approval.