Joachim Hunold has resigned as CEO of Air Berlin, after announcing swingeing cuts to capacity in a bid to return to profitability.
Hunold has been running Germany’s second largest airline since it was founded in 1991.
From September 1 Hunold will be replaced by Hart Mehdorn, who will take on the role on a temporary basis until a new permanent CEO can be appointed.
Hunold will remain on Air Berlin’s board as a non-executive director.
The shuffle at the top follows Air Berlin’s announcement yesterday (August 18) that it will cut a raft of routes, including Manchester and London.
Hunold said: "I have come to the conclusion that a change of leadership will accelerate our newly launched "Shape & Size“ programme."
In a joint statement, the airline’s board said it had accepted Hunold’s resignation “with great respect”.
"With these measures, the prerequisites that airberlin needs for a swift and comprehensive adaptation to the changed market environment are present,” the statement continued.
“The Board would like to thank Joachim Hunold for his long-standing involvement at the helm of airberlin.
“Without Mr. Hunold's consistent efforts directed to long-term results, airberlin would not have become Germany's second-largest and Europe's sixth-largest airline company. In this manner, the framework for a sustainable profitability of the company is provided."