With just three months into commercial launch and much to everyone’s surprise Bonza chairman, Rick Howell is stepping down from his post, according to the documents filed with the Australian regulator.
However, Howell will continue to work with 777 Partners, Bonza’s private equity owner but will head overseas to develop further early-stage aviation innovation projects within the 777 Partners portfolio.
'777 Partners is deeply thankful to Rick for his important contribution to the successful launch of Bonza and looks forward to continuing to work with him on global aviation projects,' 777 Partners said in a statement.
Bonza claims that it was always the plan for Howell to act as temporary chair to oversee Bonza's first three months of operations.
Howell has also stepped down as chair of 777 Partners' Australian holding company Oz Holdco, where his position will be filled by the airline's investment chief executive Manish Raniga.
A new Bonza chair has not been yet announced.