Hank Krakowski

Principal

Captain Krakowski previously served as the Chief Operating Officer of the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Air Traffic Organization for 3-1/2 years.

As COO, Mr Krakowski was responsible for all aspects of the U.S. air traffic control system — its operation and maintenance, financial performance, research and acquisition of new systems and equipment, and planning for the air traffic control system of the future.

He came to the FAA from United Air Lines where he spent nearly 30 years in a variety of senior management positions. His last position was Vice President of Flight Operations where he was responsible for flight operations, flight training and standards, technology and labor relations.

Previously, as United's Vice President of Corporate Safety, Security and Quality Assurance, he was responsible for managing all aspects of corporate and flight safety, security and regulatory compliance. This included environmental and occupational safety and all counter-terrorism and corporate security programs, as well as United's corporate emergency response programs and FAA internal evaluation programs. On 9/11, he was in charge of United's operations control as Director of Flight Operations Control.

In addition, he served as co-chair of the Collier Trophy winning Commercial Aviation Safety Team, chairman of the Star Alliance Safety Advisory Group, and a member of the Air Transport Association Safety Council. For five years, he flew as an aerobatic pilot on the air show circuit with the 6 aircraft Lima Lima formation aerobatic flight team.

Mr Krakowski holds a master's degree in business and management from National-Louis University and a bachelor's degree in aircraft maintenance engineering from St. Louis University's Parks College.