Avia Solutions Group, the world's largest ACMI (Aircraft, Crew, Maintenance, and Insurance) provider, has named Zilvinas Lapinskas as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective July 7. Lapinskas, who brings extensive international aviation experience, will steer the group through its next phase of global expansion. He will remain CEO of FL Technics until the end of July to ensure a seamless leadership transition.
Under Lapinskas's leadership, FL Technics evolved from a European MRO (Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul) provider into a global operation serving Tier 1 carriers across multiple continents. He will also retain his seat on the Avia Solutions Group Board of Directors. "I am honoured to lead Avia Solutions Group at such an important moment in its development," Lapinskas said. He emphasized his commitment to strengthening the company's operational footprint and building long-term partnerships with airlines and lessors worldwide.
Leadership Transition and Strategic Vision
Jonas Janukenas, who led the group for nearly nine years, transitions to the role of Chief Financial Officer. Janukenas expressed pride in the group's achievements and highlighted the importance of maintaining financial discipline and strategic agility in his new capacity. "Our financial foundation is strong, and I look forward to supporting Zilvinas in scaling the business responsibly," he noted.
Gediminas Ziemelis, Founder and Chairman of the Board, commented on the strategic leadership changes. "Zilvinas has a proven ability to scale aviation businesses globally. This leadership structure will provide the right platform for our continued growth globally," Ziemelis said. The group operates a fleet of 136 aircraft and employs 11,000 aviation professionals across six continents, offering a wide range of aviation solutions including ACMI leasing, MRO, pilot training, ground handling, and aviation advisory services.
The appointment comes as the global ACMI market sees increased demand from airlines seeking flexible capacity to manage seasonal peaks, fleet transitions, and network expansion. Avia Solutions Group's scale positions it to serve major carriers such as Lufthansa, British Airways, and Emirates, as well as fast-growing low-cost carriers in Asia and the Middle East. The group's recent expansion into Southeast Asia and Latin America aligns with broader trends in aviation outsourcing and capacity management.
Industry observers note that Lapinskas's operational background at FL Technics will be critical as the group integrates new aircraft types and expands its MRO capabilities. The group has invested heavily in digital tools for fleet management and predictive maintenance, leveraging data analytics to improve dispatch reliability for its lessees. "Our focus is on operational excellence and customer partnership," Lapinskas added.
Avia Solutions Group's growth trajectory mirrors the broader recovery in global air travel, with passenger numbers expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels by 2026. The group's ACMI model offers airlines a capital-light alternative to owning aircraft, a strategy that has gained traction among carriers managing post-pandemic balance sheets. As Lapinskas takes the helm, the group is well-positioned to capture further market share in both mature and emerging aviation markets.
