Baku: Mario Chaves has been appointed Chief Executive Officer of Azerbaijan Airlines' Passenger Airline, a subsidiary of Azerbaijan Airlines Group, the Press Service of Azerbaijan Airlines CJSC told APA-Economics. He will lead the airline's development during a significant growth period.

According to Azeri-Press News Agency, Mario Chaves brings over 30 years of professional experience in the aviation industry to his new role. Since 2023, he has served as Chief Operating Officer at TAP Air Portugal. Prior to this, Chaves held key positions including Chief Executive Officer of Portugalia Airlines, Chief Operating and Commercial Officer of Grupo SATA, and Acting CEO of Cabo Verde Airlines, later serving as Chief Corporate Affairs Officer.

Chaves began his professional aviation career in 1995 and joined TAP Air Portugal as a pilot in 1998. He has since held senior global positions at IATA HQ in flight operations, focusing on regulatory and efficiency fields, and has occupied senior roles at various international airlines. The new executive's extensive international experience in airline operations and commercial management in senior leadership positions is expected to significantly contribute to Azerbaijan Airlines' expansion strategy.

The appointment of Mario Chaves is part of Azerbaijan Airlines' ongoing efforts to support sustainable development, enhance operational excellence, improve customer experience, and implement leading international practices.