Fiji Airways names new South African chief

Suva, Fiji- Fiji Airways on Tuesday named South African Andre Viljoen as its new chief executive after a seven-month search, replacing Stefan Pichler who left to take over at Air Berlin.

The airline, formerly known as Air Pacific, said he would join from Air Mauritius before October.

Fiji Airways chairman Nalin Patel said Viljoen had transformed Air Mauritius and returned it to profitability during his time in charge.

"Andre is an experienced airline professional with a strong business and customer focus," he said. "We believe he is the perfect person to lead Fiji Airways and will have the full support of the board."

The Fiji government owns 51% of Fiji Airways, with Australian carrier Qantas the next largest shareholder with 46%.