New MD and CEO Takes Over at Fiji Airways

Stefan Pichler has taken over at the helm and assumed the role of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Fiji Airways, Fiji’s national airline.

Mr. Pichler joins Fiji Airways, following four years as Chief Executive Officer of Jazeera Airways where he led the company to a remarkable turnaround, achieving the highest operating profit margins in the industry in 2011 and 2012.

Before that, he was responsible for Virgin Blue’s transformation from a low cost carrier to a network airline and launched the V-Australia long haul operations.

“I am excited to join Fiji Airways at this pivotal period of growth and change. The combination of a strong brand, new fleet of A330-200’s and refurbished B737’s, as well as improved schedules and services opens up an exciting new chapter for the airline,” Mr. Pichler said.

“Following the recent record breaking financial year in terms of revenue and passenger numbers, I am confident this new era will see Fiji Airways cement their place in the industry”, he added. “There’s a wonderful team culture here at Fiji’s national airline. This should enable us to develop leading industry standards in every area of our operations and to be in a position to offer customers the best flying experience in the South Pacific.”

Founded in 1951, Fiji Airways and its subsidiary Pacific Sun fly to 15 cities in 10 countries. Destinations include Australia, New Zealand, USA, Hong Kong, Samoa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Kiribati, Vanuatu, and Solomon Islands. Fiji Airways aircraft bring in over 64 percent of all visitors who fly to Fiji, and the two companies together employ over 900 employees, earn revenues of over F$675 million (US$380m), and directly contribute a significant portion of the country’s Gross Domestic Product. Fiji Airways rebranded from Air Pacific in June 2013.