Pacific Blue CEO To Retire

MEDIA RELEASE

Pacific Blue CEO To Retire

Tuesday 16 December2008: Pacific Blue Airlines CEO John Bartlett has announced he will retire from the airline in the first quarter of 2009.

Mr Bartlett has been CEO at Christchurch-based Pacific Blue for nearly three years and has been with the Virgin Blue Group for nearly six years.

"I’ve very much enjoyed my time with both Pacific Blue and the whole Virgin Blue Group," he said.

Mr Bartlett said that "the time was right" to step down.

"The airline is in great shape and there are some other non-aviation interests I would like to consider, as well as spend more time with my wife and extended family."

Mr Bartlett said that leading the airline when it launched its New Zealand domestic services in 2007 had been a particular highlight of his tenure.

"I’ve led a great management team and the considerable growth the airline has achieved in the past year is a testament to their ability."

Virgin Blue CEO Brett Godfrey thanked Mr Bartlett for his contribution.

"Without doubt John has made a huge contribution to Pacific Blue through a very busy growth period which has seen network, fleet and staff increase and of course a very successful entry to New Zealand's domestic aviation market," Mr Godfrey said.

"Prior to Pacific Blue, his expertise was also instrumental in Virgin Blue's success and apart from that he's just a good bloke with many mates on both sides of the Tasman who wish him well with his decision and future pursuits," he said.

The airline said a new CEO will be announced when Mr Bartlett stands down at the end of March 2009.

ENDS

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