Start-up long-haul carrier Hans Airways has promoted Nathan Burkitt to chief operating officer.
The former Virgin Australia executive steps up as the carrier plans Airbus A330 scheduled flights from Birmingham to India.
Burkitt has worked with Hans Airways since December 2019, supporting chief executive Satnam Saini in selecting and overseeing pilot and cabin crew recruitment and training in his original role as flight operations and crew training director.
He brings 17 years’ senior operational experience to the airline, including roles at CityFlyer Express, Britannia Airways, ThomsonFly, Virgin Atlantic, Fastjet, Wow Air in Iceland and Norwegian Air UK.
Burkitt said: “Over the past two and a half years Hans Airways has attracted a talented group of professionals and I am delighted to be widening my responsibilities with the company.
“I love the hard work and energy that goes into new-start airlines and I’m working closely with the UK Civil Aviation Authority toward our important CAA proving flight when our first Airbus A330 arrives early June.”
Saini added: “I am extremely grateful to Nathan for all he has contributed to date in establishing an exceptional operations team.
“Having someone of his calibre and experience will serve us very well as we prepare for commercial launch.”