SunExpress CEO Max Kownatzki has stepped down from his position. Marcus Schnabel has been appointed to replace him as of 1 February 2026. Kownatzki will continue his career as CEO of Eurowings.
A change in senior management has taken place at SunExpress, the joint venture of Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa. CEO Max Kownatzki, who has led the company’s growth and transformation process since the beginning of 2020, has stepped down from his position. Kownatzki officially said goodbye to the company through a farewell video message published for SunExpress employees.
Marcus Schnabel Appointed as the New CEO
Following organisational changes carried out in SunExpress’s senior management last December, Marcus Schnabel was appointed as SunExpress CEO as of 1 February 2026 by decision of the Board of Directors. Schnabel took over the role from Max Kownatzki, who has made significant contributions to the company’s operational and financial success since 2020.
Kownatzki to Continue His Career at Eurowings
During his tenure at SunExpress, Max Kownatzki played an important role in strengthening the company’s network structure, fleet expansion, and increasing operational profitability. He will continue his career as CEO of Eurowings.
In his farewell video message addressed to SunExpress employees, Kownatzki highlighted the years he spent at the company and the successes achieved together. The video message included various stages of his career journey at SunExpress.
A New Era at SunExpress
Under the leadership of Marcus Schnabel, SunExpress aims to further strengthen its strong position on the Europe–Türkiye route, supported by the synergy provided by the partnership between Turkish Airlines and Lufthansa.
