SunExpress, the joint venture between Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa, has appointed Marcus Schnabel as its chief executive to succeed Max Kownatzki.
Schnabel, who will take up the position on February 1, will join from Lufthansa Group, where he has been responsible for ground operations at Lufthansa Airlines' Munich hub since 2024 as well as being deputy hub manager at the airport.
Kownatzki, who has held the chief executive position at SunExpress since 2020, will continue to serve until January 31, before becoming chief executive of German low-cost carrier Eurowings.
He succeeds Jens Bischof, who is stepping down at the end of the year after more than five years at the helm of Eurowings and more than 35 years in leading roles within the Lufthansa Group.
SunExpress chairman Ahmet Bolat praised Kownatzki for his "successful leadership" and hailed his "steady hand" through the pandemic.
He said he was pleased Schnabel would be taking on the chief executive position, adding: "With a sterling record of leadership and a deep understanding of SunExpress's mission, he embodies the qualities necessary to navigate the airline through its next phase of growth."
Schnabel said: "SunExpress has firmly established itself as a dynamic and resilient airline, consistently delivering sustainable growth in recent years.
"I am truly excited to join this exceptional team and help shape the next chapter of its success.
"Together, we will continue to strengthen SunExpress's position in the market and make a lasting impact on the future of aviation and tourism by fostering operational excellence and delivering value to both our passengers and partners in this dynamic industry."
Kownatzki added: "As I transition from my role as chief executive of SunExpress, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Marcus Schnabel on taking on this esteemed position.
"Leading this exceptional team has been a true privilege, and I am immensely proud of all we have achieved together.
"With every member of this incredible family, we overcame extraordinary challenges and reached historic milestones, helping to shape a bright and remarkable future for SunExpress.
"I have full confidence in Marcus Schnabel's leadership to guide SunExpress toward continued success.
"My best wishes go out to the entire team for a future filled with bold opportunities, inspiring journeys and milestones that embody the passion, dedication and family spirit of SunExpress."
Schnabel began his career in 2000 as a commercial pilot with Lufthansa Group and has 20 years of experience with the organisation.