Flybe has parted company with chief executive Saad Hammad by "mutual agreement".
Mr Hammad joined the regional airline in August 2013, but the firm has struggled financially - booking a £35.6 million loss last year before swinging back into a £2.7 million profit in 2016.
Flybe said that chairman Simon Laffin will assume the role of executive chairman until a new chief executive is appointed.
Mr Laffin said: "The board would like to thank Saad for his energy and drive which has been a major contributor towards Flybe's transformation over the last three years.
"Whilst the whole aviation industry faces a challenging market environment, Flybe remains well placed.
"Our strategy remains to focus on regional routes and to provide an excellent service to our customers."
The company said that it is actively looking for Mr Hammad's replacement.
Mr Hammad added: "Now is the right time for me to move on to a fresh challenge. I would like to thank all company employees for their hard work, passion and commitment and wish them all the best."
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