United CEO Oscar Munoz to Return in 2016 First Quarter

United Airlines released a Nov. 5 letter from United president and CEO Oscar Munoz to company employees indicating Munoz will return in the 2016 first quarter.

Munoz was stricken by a heart attack on Oct. 15 and has been on medical leave. On Oct. 19, United announced the appointment of EVP and general counsel Brett Hart as acting CEO.

Munoz's letter read:

"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."