Caribbean Airlines Chief Executive Officer Garvin Medera has resigned with immediate effect, ending an eight-year tenure that made him the longest-serving CEO in the state-owned carrier's history.

The resignation was confirmed via media release a short while ago.

Chief Operating Officer Nirmala Ramai has been appointed Acting CEO until further notice. According to the airline, she will work closely with the Senior Leadership Team under the guidance of the new Board of Directors, led by Chair Reyna Kowlessar, to ensure continuity and stability.

Ramai has previously acted as CEO on several occasions, including during Medera's recent vacation leave.

This announcement follows weeks of speculation on social media that Medera had been sent on administrative leave pending an internal review. Caribbean Airlines denied those claims at the time, calling them "false" and "not from authorised sources."

In a media release, the Board thanked Medera for his years of service and leadership, wishing him the best in his future endeavours. In an email to staff this morning, Medera confirmed his resignation, saying he plans to "take up new challenges elsewhere."

"I want to take this opportunity to thank all the employees of Caribbean Airlines who have done such a fantastic job over the past few years, facing some very difficult challenges and being their best, time and again, for each other and our passengers," he said. "Also, thanks to partners for their support and commitment and customers for their trust and loyalty. I wish everyone well."

The airline said it will continue to operate its full schedule without disruption and that the leadership change is part of its ongoing focus on "stability, safety and accountability."

-As part of this transition, Caribbean Airlines outlined five key initiatives:

-Supporting employees and stakeholders with open communication and care.

-Reviewing operations to increase efficiency and modernisation.

-Enhancing the customer experience with improved services.

-Developing a long-term, financially responsible and sustainable growth plan.

-Conducting full audits of all departments to strengthen governance, safety and accountability.

The airline says it is committed to developing and promoting talent from within before seeking external candidates, saying it remains focused on open communication with staff, customers and stakeholders as the transition unfolds.

Medera out: Caribbean Airlines CEO resigns