United Airlines has released a statement from President and CEO Oscar Munoz indicating that he could return to work in the first quarter of 2016 after recovering from his recent heart attack. Here is the letter:
"Dear United team,
"Thank you for all the thoughts and prayers you sent to my family and me over the past few weeks. I am excited to tell you that I am on the road to recovery. My time away will be a little longer than I would like, but based upon discussion with my doctors I will be back in the first quarter.
"I'm personally grateful to Brett and the entire management team for their leadership and for embracing United's new direction. I know each one of you is committed to achieving our full potential, continuing to focus on building and delivering our shared purpose of making United not only the best airline to fly, but also the best place to work.
"While I have been part of the United family for only a short time, I've built many valued and strong relationships so far, and I can't wait to come back.
"As I'm sure you can appreciate, this has been a difficult time for me and my family. Your messages of encouragement have helped profoundly. I look forward to seeing you in 2016 to continue working together to build a great airline.
"Sincerely,
Oscar"
Munoz was placed on medical leave following a heart attack he suffered October 15. Shortly thereafter, United Airlines named Brett J. Hart, then the airline's executive vice president and general counsel, as acting CEO.
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