Avion Express has appointed Vitenis Suklis as its new chief executive, as the ACMI operator continues its international expansion. He will take up the role on 1 June, replacing Darius Kajokas after eight years in the post.
The company said Suklis brings experience in both aviation and financial management. He previously served as Avion Express chief financial officer.
Avion Express provides aircraft, crew, maintenance and insurance services to airlines including Eurowings, Transavia and Air Algerie, and also operates charter flights for tour operator Novaturas. The company said its recent growth has included an entry into Brazil.
Suklis said he was taking on the role “with pride” and that he was aware of the challenges ahead.
“Avion Express has a unique team and a strong business model that I know well. The company is in great shape after a recent transformation and I will build on this foundation. I will focus on deepening relationships with customers and expanding our international activity,” said Vitenis Suklis, chief executive of Avion Express.
Avion Express is part of Avia Solutions Group, which presents it as a key element of its global growth strategy. Jonas Janukenas, chief executive of Avia Solutions Group, said the company expected the airline to keep expanding internationally and to use new market opportunities.
“I have confidence in Vitenis’s abilities. I would also like to thank Darius for his commitment and the solid foundations he leaves behind. Looking ahead, Avion Express remains a key pillar of the Avia Solutions group’s global growth strategy. Under Vitenis’s leadership, we are confident that the company will continue to develop its international operations, seize new market opportunities and serve our clients around the world,” said Jonas Janukenas, chief executive of Avia Solutions Group.
Kajokas said he was proud to have contributed to the company’s growth over the past eight years.
“I am proud that over the past eight years I have contributed to the successful development and growth of Avion Express. I would like to thank the team for its professionalism and commitment to the company. I believe these qualities will form the foundation for the company’s further development and strengthening of its market position in the years ahead,” said Darius Kajokas, outgoing chief executive of Avion Express.
The leadership change comes as ACMI operators continue to compete for contracts with airlines that want short-term capacity, operational flexibility and outsourced fleet support. Avion Express has expanded its footprint in recent years as demand for such services has grown across Europe and beyond.
The move also reflects a wider pattern in the aviation sector, where senior management changes often accompany periods of expansion, restructuring or renewed investment. For Avion Express, the focus now appears to be on sustaining growth in existing markets while building a stronger presence in new ones.
With Suklis moving from chief financial officer to chief executive, the transition suggests Avion Express is seeking continuity at the top while still pushing ahead with its international ambitions. The company has not announced any changes to its operating model or customer base following the appointment.
