David Pflieger’s Diverse Aviation Industry Leadership Experience

Currently CEO & Managing Director of Fiji's national airline, David Pflieger’s experience in the aviation industry spans more than two decades. Mr. Pflieger served for several years in the U.S. Armed Forces, undertaking roles as B-52 Instructor Pilot and Air Force Officer. He subsequently maintained status with the Pennsylvania Air National Guard as C-130 Aircraft Commander.

David Pflieger earned MBA and Juris Doctor degrees at Emory University in Atlanta. Moving into law practice in 1997 with King & Spalding, LLP, he represented clients in diverse civil and criminal defense lawsuits. The following year, he leveraged his aviation experience into a role with Delta Air Lines as B737 Pilot and Operations Attorney. This position entailed oversight of operational compliance and legal matters. Over a three year period, he guided more than 300 cases to successful resolution, including investigations by Department of Transportation and Federal Aviation Administration regulators.

Following two years as Vice President of Operations with Song - Delta Air Lines, Mr. Pflieger took an executive role with Virgin America, Inc., at the time a startup enterprise. Undertaking a variety roles including A320 Captain, General Counsel of Legal & Government Affairs, and Senior Vice President, he helped develop the operations control center, fulfill government compliance requirements, and expand as a viable enterprise in a highly competitive industry.

David Pflieger has led Fiji-based Air Pacific Ltd. for the past two years, spearheading the transformation and restructuring of a nearly $300 million operation that employs 900 and maintains a fleet of 15 aircraft. He has notably retired several outmoded aircraft, introducing B737-800 and DH-6 Twin Otter planes and scheduling the delivery of three state-of-the-art Airbus A330-200.