ADQ, an Abu Dhabi based investment and holding company, together with Etihad’s Board of Directors, has announced the appointment of Antonoaldo Neves as Group Chief Executive Officer of Etihad Aviation Group, succeeding Tony Douglas as Group CEO, who has decided to pursue an opportunity elsewhere, and will serve during his transition period as an advisor to the Board of ADQ Aviation and Aerospace Services Company.
Antonoaldo Neves was CEO and Board Member of TAP, the National Airline of Portugal, where he successfully led a major turnaround that resulted in a more valuable company, with better customer service and more passengers, significantly contributing to tourism development in Portugal.
His Excellency Mohammed Ali Al Shorafa, Chairman of Etihad Aviation Group, said: “Tony has led Etihad through some of its most challenging times and has successfully turned the airline into a profitable and sustainable business over the past five years as part of its initial transformation program.
“As we’re entering our next phase of sustainable growth, we are confident that Antonoaldo will build on Tony’s legacy.
“We thank Tony for all the hard work he has delivered. Etihad will continue to serve Abu Dhabi as the national airline of the UAE, delivering world class services and exceeding global benchmarks in the near future.”
Antonoaldo Neves, Group CEO of Etihad Aviation Group, commented: “Etihad Airways is a global well-known brand in the industry.
“I’m excited to embark on this new role and build on the solid foundation left by Tony and the management team. I am confident that Etihad will prosper into new heights and continue its journey of sustainable growth.”
Tony Douglas, former Etihad Aviation Group CEO, added: “I am proud to have served as Etihad’s chief executive officer over the past five years.
“The unprecedented challenges stemming from macro-economic conditions faced by the industry were successfully navigated through prudent measures undertaken to position Etihad on a sustainable path for the future.
“I am appreciative of all the support provided by my Etihad colleagues and looking forward to further supporting the evolution of the wider Abu Dhabi aviation ecosystem.”
