West Star names CEO, chairman

    In a series of moves designed to strengthen its leadership team, West Star Aviation says Jim Rankin has been added as chief executive officer, former CEO Robert Rasberry has been named chairman of the board, and Rodger Renaud will remain president and chief operating officer.
    Rankin began his career in aviation as a pilot flying for Midwest Airlines accruing more than 11,000 flight hours. He held positions as chief pilot and director of operations before being named president and chief executive officer at Skyway Airlines, a regional airline subsidiary of Midwest Airlines, in 2000. He then accepted the president and CEO position at Air Wisconsin Airlines, a 70-aircraft American Eagle carrier and most recently, he was the president and CEO of Oregon-based Columbia Helicopters.
    Rankin will be located in the facility at St. Louis Regional Airport in East Alton.