U.S. President George W. Bush appointed Burns amid eight months of clashes in a Palestinian uprising that has so far claimed over 500 lives -- the vast majority Palestinian.
In October 2006, BA's commercial director, Martin George, and communications chief, Iain Burns - who had been on leave of absence since the inquiry into the surcharges began - quit the company.
Others who have travelled the well-worn path include former Senator George Mitchell, retired Marine General Anthony Zinni and diplomats William Burns and Dennis Ross.