Southern African Aviation Pioneer Steps Down

Airlink founder and CEO Rodger Foster has announced his departure from the airline's operational leadership after an illustrious 33-year tenure. Foster, who co-founded the airline in 1992 during South Africa's pivotal political transition, will step down from his position at the end of March 2025, though he will maintain his connection with the airline as a shareholder and non-executive director.

The leadership transition will see current Chief Financial Officer de Villiers Engelbrecht assume the role of CEO effective April 1, 2025. Engelbrecht, who brings over two decades of experience with Airlink, has been instrumental in navigating the airline through significant challenges, including its separation from SAA and the unprecedented disruptions caused by COVID-19 travel restrictions.

Under Foster's stewardship, Airlink has evolved into a resilient industry leader, recently strengthened by Qatar Airways Group's acquisition of a 25 percent stake. The airline has also established strategic partnerships with major global carriers, positioning itself as a key player in connecting Southern Africa with the world. This transition marks a new chapter for the airline, which has grown from a regional carrier during South Africa's deregulation era to become one of the continent's premier aviation companies.

Source: Airlink