Cowen joins the Kuwait and Dubai-based low cost carrier after departing the Saudi Arabian budget airline Sama late last year.

Cowen led Sama through a successful launch and expansion, but found the market increasingly difficult as a result of the fare cap imposed by Riyadh on domestic flights, and the large fuel subsidy enjoyed by the national carrier, Saudi Arabian Airlines.

Marwan Boodai, who previously held the joint position of chairman and CEO, will take on the chairman’s role.

Jazeera also says it will add five new destinations - Istanbul, Doha, Khartoum, Sanaa and Deir Ez Zoor - to its international network this summer.