Saudi Arabian Airlines Group has appointed Jaan Albrecht, the former CEO of SunExpress, a Turkish airline based in Antalya, as its new chief executive effective January next year, said a report.

A veteran with more than 40 years' experience in the aviation industry, Albrecht, had earlier held the poistion of CEO at Austrian Airlines and Star Alliance, reported the Air Transport World.

In his new role, he will be reporting directly to group's director general Saleh Al Jasser. The Saudi Arabian Airlines is member of the SkyTeam alliance.

The new Saudi Arabian management also includes international managers in positions as chief finance officers and chief commercial officers, to further develop the carrier, it stated.

Albrecht has spent 28 years at Mexicana Airlines in a number of leadership positions.

In 2001, Albrecht became Star Alliance CEO, managing the growth of the alliance from 10 to 27 member airlines in 25 countries.

He also spent four years as Austrian Airlines’ CEO, managing the successful turnaround of the company.

Welcoming the industry veteran, Jasser said: "Albrecht will be a great addition to Saudia as he leads the airline to further heights as part of our group transformation 2020 strategy. His experience and drive will further enhance Saudia’s position as the premier national airline of the kingdom."