Former Spirit Airlines CEO joins Canadian low cost startup NewLeaf
Tuesday, 24 Jun, 2016
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The former CEO of Spirit Airlines Ben Baldanza is back in the airline business.
He has joined Canadian startup NewLeaf Travel Company as board chairman.
"Ben Baldanza is an industry pioneer with many years of experience guiding ultra-low cost carriers. He built Spirit into one of the world’s most profitable airlines and we are thrilled he will help steer our experienced and knowledgeable management team," said Jim Young, CEO of NewLeaf.
Winnipeg-based NewLeaf is focused on the ultra-low cost model although it does not operate aircraft in its own right.
NewLeaf markets and sells tickets for flights operated by partner Flair Airlines, but had to abruptly shut down earlier this year before its maiden flight due to confusion about whether it needed an air operator’s licence.
It had since been cleared by the Canadian Transportation Agency to resume ticket sales and announced it will officially launch services on July 25.
"I have long felt Canadians are paying too much for their air travel. I’m looking forward to helping bring ultra-low fares to north of the border," Baldanza said.
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