Theo Panagiotoulias, Senior VP, Global Sales, Hawaiian Airlines is appointed as the Chief Executive Officer of Star Alliance. He succeeds Charlotta Wieland, who has been seconded from SAS – Scandinavian Airlines to serve as Star Alliance’s interim CEO since January 2023.
With Panagiotoulias coming on board, Wieland will return to SAS, and also rejoin Star Alliance’s Alliance Management Board as the representative for SAS.
Panagiotoulias has over 25 years of international experience in the airline and aviation industry.
Previously, he has served as the VP and GM at Sabre Corporation, he also held several commercial, operational and management positions at American Airlines for 15 years.
“On behalf of the board of Star Alliance, I would like to congratulate Theo for being named the next CEO of Star Alliance,” said Scott Kirby, CEO of United Airlines and Chairman of the Star Alliance Chief Executive Board. “Theo’s international commercial and airline experience have 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.”
“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.”