Delta appoints Neel Shah from United as vice president to head cargo division

DELTA Air Lines has announced that Neel Shah, 38 will join the company as vice president in charge of the cargo division on January 14. and will report to company president Ed Bastian

This reflects the company's increased focus on building a world-class cargo business that leverages the size and scope of Delta's global network, said a press release from the airline.

"Delta's ability to operate service to more worldwide destinations than any other airline has created a strong platform from which to build Delta Cargo into one of the world's most extensive airline freight operations," Mr Bastian said.

Mr Shah recently served as vice president of sales at United Airlines Cargo where he was responsible for generating US$765 million in revenue. Between 2005 and 2007, he successfully rebuilt the sales and marketing organisation of United Cargo, increasing revenues by $145 million and doubling its contributions to the parent.

Before joining United Cargo, Mr Shah played a leading role in business development for United Loyalty Services where he was responsible for incubating new business ventures. He also held consulting jobs at Arthur D Little, and Beddows & Company.

He also sits on the Air Transport Association's executive cargo council and is a board member of Cargo 2000. He holds an MBA from Columbia and a bachelor's from Swarthmore.