**EuroAtlantic Airways, the Portuguese carrier specializing in long-haul ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) and charter operations, has appointed Pauls Calitis as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective May 18, 2026.** Calitis, who spent over 30 years at airBaltic—most recently as Chief Operations Officer and interim CEO—will succeed Stewart Higginson, who transitions to the role of non-executive chairman. The leadership change, described as "planned" by shareholder Njord Partners, aims to strengthen governance and drive the next phase of growth for the Lisbon-based airline. **For ATPL and ATC students, this appointment highlights the growing importance of the ACMI model in modern aviation.** ACMI allows airlines to lease aircraft with crew, maintenance, and insurance, providing flexibility to manage seasonal demand or capacity gaps. As major carriers increasingly outsource capacity due to production delays and crew shortages, understanding ACMI operations becomes critical. Students should note how Calitis's background—from pilot to COO—mirrors the career path many aspire to, and how his experience with fleet modernization (airBaltic's A220 transition) and EASA compliance directly applies to the operational challenges EuroAtlantic faces. **EuroAtlantic currently operates a fleet of Boeing 777-200ERs and 767-300ERs, with two additional 777-200ERs acquired in 2024.** The company has strengthened its fundamentals in recent years, improving operational reliability and expanding its international client base. Calitis's mandate includes enhancing service quality, operational performance, and managing a growing fleet in demanding markets. The ACMI segment is booming post-COVID, especially on European and transatlantic routes, as airlines seek flexible capacity without long-term commitments. **The appointment also underscores the role of private equity in aviation.** Njord Partners, which invested in EuroAtlantic in 2024, has backed a "disciplined growth" strategy focused on fleet expansion, operational investments, and high safety standards. For students, this illustrates how financial ownership shapes airline strategy—a topic often covered in ATPL management and ATC resource planning modules. Calitis's experience at airBaltic, where he helped build one of Europe's most efficient and respected carriers, positions him well to lead EuroAtlantic's next chapter.