Runge, whose appointment was expected, succeeds Ladimir Brolih, while the position of the other Aerodrom Maribor director, Boris Bobek, remains unclear.

Runge, a close associate of Harm Jan Prins, who has been active in the Maribor Airport saga as well as several other enterprises in Slovenia's second largest city, will be in charge of managing the airport and its operations.

According to SHS Aviation, which acquired the airport late last year, Runge has valuable experience in aviation and tourism he has gained by working in companies, such as Martinair and the TUI group.

SHS Aviation added that it was determined for Maribor Airport to provide quality services. The company will invest in infrastructure and market development to ensure a suitable future for the airport.