Walmart board takes flight with ex-AA CEO

Walmart has appointed Tom Horton, former chairman and CEO of American Airlines, as the 16th member of its board of directors. Horton will also serve on the audit committee.

"Tom’s management and business experience and, in particular, his roles in operational and financial management at American Airlines will bring valuable insights to the Board," said Walmart Chairman Rob Walton. "His broad leadership roles combined with his global insights and understanding of the corporate issues a multinational company manages will benefit the Board, our management team and our shareholders."

Horton, 53, a long-time American Airlines employee, was named chairman and CEO of American when predecessor Gerard Arpey stepped down in 2011. Horton was instrumental in leading American through a successful restructuring and turnaround that culminated in the merger with US Airways to create the world's largest airline in 2013.

Walmart’s board also includes Marissa Mayer, president and CEO of Yahoo!, and Instagram CEO Kevin Systrom, who was appointed in September.