Former Virgin Blue executive to head Fiji Airways

Former Virgin Blue executive to head Fiji Airways
By admin


The chief executive of Kuwait carrier Jazeera Airways and former Virgin Blue executive, Stefan Pichler, has been named the new managing director and CEO of Fiji Airways.

He will join the airline on September 1.

Germany-born Pichler joined Jazeera Airways in 2009 and helped transform it from a low cost carrier to a regional network airline, achieving the highest operating profit margins in the industry in 2011 and 2012.

Prior to joining Jazeera, Pichler spent five years with Virgin Blue as chief commercial officer and chairman of V Australia.

Fiji Airways chairman, Nalin Patel, said Pichler has a strong track record in turning businesses around and “growing them to new levels”.

“He has extensive global experience not only in all airline business models but also in the tourism industry,” he said.

Pichler was also chief executive of Thomas Cook and held senior roles with Lufthansa.

He will take over at Fiji Airways from acting chief executive and chief commercial officer Aubrey Swift who stepped into the role following the departure earlier this year of Dave Pflieger.

"I am excited to join Fiji Airways on the road ahead to build a bright future, based on a strong brand and a dedicated team," Pichler said. "Together we can build a company which every Fijian can be proud of."

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