Delta Air Lines CEO Richard Anderson will step down after more than eight years in charge. Anderson will be replaced by Delta president Ed Bastian from 2 May 2016, but will remain executive chairman of its board of directors, while Executive vice president Glen Hauenstein will replace Ed Bastian as president.

“Richard has been an outstanding leader and CEO. His unique combination of strategic and operating skills, plus his commitment to employees, corporate culture, customers and shareholders has redefined Delta,” said chairman Dan Carp.

Anderson assumed the CEO role 2007, presiding over Delta’s 2008 merger with Northwest Airlines, and setting the standard for legacy carriers in operational performance and customer satisfaction.