STS Aviation Group (US) has announced two key executive promotions, effective immediately. Ethan Steele has been promoted to Executive Vice President and Head of Commercial, while Shane King has assumed the role of President of STS Aviation Services. These leadership changes reflect the company’s commitment to reinforcing its executive team as it expands its global footprint in MRO and engineering services.
Spirit Airlines, the U.S.-based ultra-low-cost carrier, has announced that CEO Ted Christie is stepping down from his role. While a formal search is underway for his successor, the company has established an interim office of the CEO to manage day-to-day operations and executive oversight.
Ryanair Holdings, headquartered in Ireland, has confirmed that 47% of its issued share capital was held by EU nationals at the close of its financial year on 31 March 2025. The disclosure reflects the airline group’s continued monitoring and compliance efforts with European Union ownership requirements.
Jetcraft, a leading global aircraft brokerage and trading firm headquartered in the UK, has announced the internal promotion of Jennifer Jewett to the role of Senior Vice President of Finance. Jewett previously served as the company’s Controller, and her promotion reflects Jetcraft’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its financial leadership team amid continued global expansion.
Contrail Aviation Support, a U.S.-based provider of aircraft engine solutions and aftermarket services, has announced the appointment of Tom Keeler as its new Vice President Technical. Keeler brings decades of aviation industry experience and is expected to play a critical role in enhancing Contrail’s technical operations as the company expands its global footprint.
airBaltic, the flag carrier of Latvia, has announced a major leadership change as CEO Martin Gauss stepped down from his position following a decision made at the company’s regular Shareholders’ Meeting. Pauls Calitis, currently serving as Chief Operating Officer (COO) and a Management Board Member, has been appointed as Interim CEO.
Play Airlines, the low-cost carrier based in Iceland, has accepted a settlement offer from the Financial Supervisory Authority (FME) relating to issues around the disclosure of its lower revenue generation in 2022. As part of the settlement, the airline has agreed to pay a fine of US$120,800.
AVITAS, a leading U.S.-based aviation consultancy and valuation firm, has announced a major executive leadership transition with the retirement of President & CEO John Vitale. While stepping down from day-to-day operations, Vitale will remain actively involved as Senior Advisor and Member of the Board, ensuring continuity in leadership and strategic guidance.
Air Antilles, the regional carrier based in Guadeloupe, is facing a major setback in its commercial development efforts as its CEO accuses Corsair and Air France of refusing to sign interline agreements. These agreements are seen as essential to the airline’s strategy to integrate into broader international networks and offer seamless connectivity for passengers.
ATR, the Franco-Italian regional aircraft manufacturer, has announced the appointment of Marion Smeyers as its new Senior Vice President of Operations and Procurement, effective 01 May 2025. She will succeed Eric Segura and report directly to Nathalie Tarnaud Laude, CEO of ATR.
