Star Alliance chief executive Jaan Albrecht has been recommended as the new chairman and chief executive of Austrian Airlines.

The executive board of Lufthansa, Austrian's parent, has recommended the appointment to the Austrian flag carrier's supervisory board.

Lufthansa chief Christoph Franz said of Albrecht: "His experience, his network and excellent industry know-how equip him ideally to master the huge challenges facing Austrian Airlines.

"With Jaan Albrecht, we are strengthening the team on the executive board with an internationally-recognised top manager, who simultaneously commands profound expertise in integration management."

Albrecht has been chief executive of the Star Alliance for the past decade.

Commenting on his departure, chief executive board chairman Rob Fyfe said: "It is with regret that we are losing such a capable and high-performing CEO, but he goes to his new role with the very best wishes of all member carriers and our gratitude for his leadership and service over the past 10 years."

Albrecht is due to move to his new role on 1 November 2011.

Source: Air Transport Intelligence news