Brussels Airlines has officially marked the departure of Dorothea von Boxberg, who has completed her three-year tenure as CEO of the Belgian carrier after spending more than 20 years within the Lufthansa Group.
Von Boxberg’s final day in the role came last Friday, when Brussels Airlines arranged a symbolic journey to Frankfurt — a fitting final trip for an executive whose career has been closely tied to the airline industry.
The carrier highlighted the occasion on LinkedIn, writing: “Last Friday marked Dorothea von Boxberg’s final day as our CEO. There was just one last thing left for us to do: bring her safely home. Because after all, that’s what we do every day.”
The farewell flight featured an unusual change of roles. Brussels Airlines CFO Nina Oewerdieck welcomed von Boxberg at the gate, taking on the role of Passenger Services Agent, while COO Filip Aerts served as captain for the flight to Frankfurt.
The airline described the gesture as a small but meaningful way of making von Boxberg’s final journey as CEO memorable. Brussels Airlines also thanked her for her contribution during her three years leading the carrier, as well as for her more than two decades of service within the Lufthansa Group.
The leadership transition had already been announced by the Executive Board of Deutsche Lufthansa AG, which appointed Lorenza Maggio as the new CEO of Brussels Airlines.
In addition to heading the Belgian airline, Maggio will take on the role of “Executive Board Representative to the European Commission.” Von Boxberg is leaving the company at her own request, effective 31 August 2026.
The date for Maggio’s move from Rome to Brussels will be determined shortly, according to Brussels Airlines.
Dieter Vranckx, Chairman of the Board of Directors of SN Airholding and Chief Commercial Officer of the Lufthansa Group, described Maggio as a highly accomplished and internationally experienced airline executive.
He highlighted her experience across the industry and within the Lufthansa Group, where she has held various leadership positions at different companies. Vranckx said her expertise would support Brussels Airlines in its role as an integrated hub airline within the Lufthansa Group.
He also welcomed the decision to appoint a successor from within the group’s own ranks, while expressing his sincere thanks to Dorothea von Boxberg for her many years of successful service to Lufthansa Group.
