From SunExpress to Eurowings: New CEO Max Kownatzki Promises Smarter Leisure Routes and Easier Travel Across Europe

Published on December 12, 2025

Eurowings will welcome Max Kownatzki as its new CEO on 1 February 2026. He currently leads SunExpress and brings long years of experience in aviation strategy. His appointment is part of a wider leadership transition within the Lufthansa Group. The change is designed to strengthen the company’s focus on leisure travel and point-to-point European journeys.

For global tourists, this shift is more than a corporate update. It could influence flight choices, routes, and travel comfort over the next few years.

A New Direction for Leisure Travel

Eurowings has always positioned itself as the leisure arm of the Lufthansa Group. It mainly serves holiday destinations, city breaks, and short-haul European routes. With a leader who has worked deeply in leisure aviation, travellers may see the airline place even more attention on seasonal demand and popular tourist routes.

Industry observers expect Eurowings to sharpen its summer schedule and strengthen services to beaches, islands, and key European cities. Travellers may benefit from more direct flights and fewer airport transfers. A direct route often means lower stress, shorter travel time, and simpler planning.

What Travellers Can Expect After the Leadership Change

Leadership transitions take time, but strategic decisions often begin months before a new CEO takes office. Travellers planning for 2026 and beyond can watch for subtle changes in timetables, frequencies, and fare bundles.

Eurowings might adjust its cabin options, baggage packages, or seat selection rules. Leisure airlines often experiment with new bundles to keep prices accessible. If you book early, watch for updated fare descriptions. Always read the conditions before confirming a ticket.

The airline may also focus more on punctuality and reliability. Consistent operations matter to travellers who plan multi-city European itineraries. Holiday flyers also prefer airlines that make check-in and boarding simple, especially when travelling with family, beach gear or extra baggage.

Planning Your Journey Through Germany

Many Eurowings flights operate from major German airports. These include Düsseldorf, Cologne, Hamburg and Berlin. Travellers should understand the transit rules when connecting in Germany.

Germany follows Schengen entry regulations. If your journey requires leaving the international transit area or changing terminals, you may need a visa depending on your nationality. Travellers should check information published by their national foreign office and the German Federal Foreign Office before booking.

Airports in Germany also enforce security standards aligned with EU aviation regulations. This means travellers should plan extra time for security screening. Pack liquids properly and review carry-on restrictions to avoid delays.

Booking Tips for Stress-Free EU Travel

Holiday travel across Europe becomes smoother with a few simple habits:

Book flexible fares.
Travel plans can shift, especially for long vacations. Flexible tickets offer peace of mind without high penalties.

Check baggage rules before travelling.
Low-cost and leisure airlines often adjust baggage allowances. Confirm weight limits for both cabin and checked bags.

Reserve seats early.
If you prefer aisle seats, extra legroom or want to sit together as a family, early booking helps you secure your choice.

Monitor seasonal schedules.
Airlines frequently update routes around summer and winter. New leadership may introduce fresh holiday destinations.

Track operational updates.
Closer to your departure, check whether your flight departure time or boarding gate has changed.

What This Means for Summer Travellers

With a new CEO focused on leisure travel, Eurowings may refine how it serves Europe’s busiest summer airports. This can help travellers heading to Mediterranean beaches, snowy Alpine towns, or historic European capitals.

More tourist-friendly timings, early morning departures, or weekend-focused schedules are possible. For holidaymakers, these adjustments can create more convenient connections, shorter layovers, and smoother travel days.

A Traveller’s View of the Leadership Shift

For the average tourist, airline leadership changes may seem distant. Yet, the direction set by the CEO influences everything from route planning to onboard comfort. Max Kownatzki’s background suggests a continued emphasis on leisure passengers, comfort upgrades, and straightforward travel.

This could translate into better route availability, more direct choices, and improved seasonal planning for travellers who love exploring Europe.

Final Traveller Checklist

• Read visa requirements early for Germany or the Schengen region.
• Use official government travel advisories for updates.
• Book flexible fares when planning long holidays.
• Double-check baggage and seat options at booking.
• Monitor Eurowings schedules for new tourist routes.