05:34 AM EDT, 08/01/2025 (MT Newswires) -- Southwest Airlines ( LUV ) said Thursday it appointed Doug Brooks as independent board chair, effective Aug. 1, following Rakesh Gangwal's decision to step down due to other commitments.

The company said Gangwal will remain on the board and lead a newly formed fleet oversight committee, focused on aircraft acquisition strategy.

Gangwal will also continue to serve on other key committees, such as the finance committee and the nominating & corporate governance committee, the company said.

Brooks has served as a director of the company since 2010, it added.