Delta’s Long-Term President Glen Hauenstein to Retire After Illustrious Career
- Joe Breitfeller
- Dec 17, 2025
- 2 min read
Delta Air Lines has announced the retirement of company President Glen Hauenstein, effective February 28, 2026. Mr. Hauenstein pioneered the transformation of Delta’s global network, pricing and premium strategy over two decades.
On Wednesday (December 17, 2026), Delta Air Lines announced the retirement of their long-term President, Glen Hauenstein, after a storied career. Mr. Hauenstein pioneered the transformation of Delta’s global network, pricing and premium strategy over two decades. Joe Esposito, a 35-year Delta veteran, has been named EVP and Chief Commercial Officer, overseeing network planning, revenue management, sales and loyalty. In a memo to Delta team members, Delta’s CEO, Ed Bastian, announced that Glen Hauenstein, Delta’s president, will retire on February 28, 2026, after a career of extraordinary leadership and service to Delta and the industry. Hauenstein will continue to serve as a strategic advisor through the end of next year.
In the memo to company employees, Delta’s CEO, Ed Bastian, said,
“Glen’s vision and strategic mindset have been essential in transforming Delta into the leading global airline we are today. Hauenstein and his teams have been central to building Delta’s global network, driving revenue premium and establishing Delta as the top choice for travelers seeking premium experiences. I could not have asked for a better co-pilot to help lead Delta in becoming the best performing airline in the world. Most importantly, Glen has always recognized that the dedication and commitment of Delta’s 100,000 people worldwide are what sets us apart. His impact on Delta, and the industry overall, cannot be overstated.”
Also commenting on Mr. Hauenstein’s retirement, Delta’s EVP and Chief Commercial Officer, Joe Esposito, said,
“Glen leaves behind a powerful legacy of innovation and bold thinking that has transformed our industry. It’s been a tremendous privilege to work alongside him for the past 20 years, and I’m humbled and inspired to lead the outstanding teams he developed as we envision the Delta of the next 100 years.”
Delta’s retiring President, Glen Hauenstein, added,
“I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity to serve the people and customers of Delta over the past two decades. I want to thank my team members, colleagues, and the entire Delta family for their support and dedication to our shared goal of building the world’s greatest airline. I’m excited to see us embark into our next century under Joe’s leadership.”
Since joining Delta in 2005, Glen Hauenstein led the team that transformed Delta’s network from a primarily domestic operation to a global footprint that connects the world. Thanks to his leadership, Delta flies to six continents today, with extended reach through an array of joint venture partnerships with international carriers such as Virgin Atlantic, Air France-KLM, LATAM, Aeromexico, Korean Air and more. Prior to joining Delta, Mr. Hauenstein served as Vice General Director for Alitalia and Senior Vice President for Continental Airlines. He is a graduate of Stetson University in DeLand, Florida.
Source: Delta Air Lines
