euroAtlantic Airways has hired a former airBaltic interim CEO as the new chief executive of the Portuguese ACMI and charter operator.
On May 5, 2026, euroAtlantic Airways announced that after 31 years at airBaltic, Pauls Calitis would take over from Stewart Higginson, who has served as CEO since early 2024.
Calitis joined airBaltic as one of the carrier’s first pilots in 1995 and rose to become CCO in 2020 after a series of executive roles.
In 2025, following the departure of Martin Gauss after 13 years at the helm of the Baltic carrier, Calitis assumed the position of interim CEO. airBaltic eventually appointed Erno Hildén as its permanent CEO.
“I am honored to join EuroAtlantic Airways at such an exciting time in its journey. EAA has made tremendous strides in recent years, and I look forward to building on this momentum to further enhance the company’s operational excellence, customer focus, and market leadership in the ACMI and charter segments,” said Calitis.
Calitis announced in April 2026, he would be leaving airBaltic after three decades, describing it as “an honor to be part of airBaltic’s journey”.
In a statement, euroAtlantic Airways said it has “undergone a significant transformation” since Njord Partners became majority owners in 2024.
According to the company, its capacity is substantially committed for 2026, with limited fleet availability remaining for 2027.
The company is also set to further expand its fleet in the second half of the year with the addition of two Airbus A330 aircraft, representing 100% growth in its fleet size in just over a year.
“With several long-term contracts in place and continuously high customer interest, EAA is well-positioned to navigate current market turbulence and capitalize on growth opportunities. Pauls’ proven ability to deliver operational resilience, foster customer confidence, and build high-performing teams will undoubtedly enhance EAA’s ability to meet the evolving needs of the market,” said euroAtlantic Airways.
Calitis will be based at the airlines headquarters in Lisbon and will start his new role on May 18, 2026. Higginson become Non-Executive Chairman of the Board.
Higginson said: “Pauls brings with him an exceptional track record of operational and commercial leadership, underpinned by a people-first approach and a commitment to quality. His expertise in ACMI operations, coupled with his success in navigating industry challenges and fostering growth, makes him the ideal leader to continue EAA’s trajectory of success.”
