The global airline association Star Alliance has chosen Theo Panagiotoulias as its new chief executive officer. The manager will lead an organization, founded on March 15, 1993, which includes some of the most important air carrier in the world: among these Turkish Airlines and the US United Airlines, Air China and Air India, and then Tap Air Portugal, Salvadoran Avianca and the German Lufthansa Group.

"Star Alliance connects the world. More than 200 million customers fly with its 26 member airlines each year, on more than 16,000 flights every day. The alliance has also spearheaded the revolution that foster a smoother travel experience for I am honored to have been chosen to lead the Star Alliance team and work directly with our 26 member airlines as we continue to innovate as the world's leading airline alliance", said Panagiotoulias.

The new CEO has more than 25 years of international experience in the air transport and aviation industry. His industry experiences include: Senior Vice Presidency for Global Sales and Alliances at Hawaiian Airlines (since 2014); vice president and general manager of Asia Pacific for the travel company Saber Corporation; previously served 15 years on the board of American Airlines. Panagiotoulias will succeed Charlotta Wieland.