FRANKFURT – Star Alliance, the world’s leading airline alliance, announced the appointment of Theo Panagiotoulias as its new CEO.
Having more than 25 years of international experience in the airline and aviation industry, Panagiotoulias joins Star Alliance from Hawaiian Airlines, where he had been Senior VP for Global Sales and Alliances since 2014. Previously, he was the VP and GM (Asia Pacific) at travel technology provider Sabre Corporation, as well as a 15-year veteran of American Airlines, where he held several commercial, operational and management positions
“Theo’s international commercial and airline experience has given him a good understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing our industry today. I believe he is the right person to lead Star Alliance into the future”, said Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines and Chairman of the Star Alliance Chief Executive Board, congratulating Panagiotoulias on behalf of the board of Star Alliance.
“Star Alliance connects the world”, said Panagiotoulias. “More than 200 million customers fly with its 26 member airlines each year, on more than 16,000 flights each day. The Alliance has also led the revolution to promote a more seamless passenger experience. I am honoured that I’ve been chosen to lead the Star Alliance team and work directly with our 26 member carriers, as we continue to innovate as the world’s leading airline alliance”.
He will succeed Charlotta Wieland, who has been seconded from SAS – Scandinavian Airlines to serve as Star Alliance’s interim CEO since January 2023. Wieland will return to SAS, and also rejoin Star Alliance’s Alliance Management Board as the representative for SAS.
Mr Panagiotoulias’ appointment is expected to take effect within the coming months, upon the completion of certain administrative processes and clearances.
A native of Melbourne, Panagiotoulias studied at the British International School in Athens, Greece, and is a graduate of Haileybury College in Melbourne, Australia. He has also completed the Advanced Leadership Programme at the University of Cambridge in the UK.
The Star Alliance network was established in 1997 as the first truly global airline alliance, based on a customer value proposition of global reach, worldwide recognition and seamless service. It was named the World’s Best Airline Alliance by Skytrax in 2022.
