Steven R.v. Gonesh

Senior Aviation Executive and Airline Captain with over 33 years of progressive experience in commercial aviation, including executive leadership roles as Acting Chief Executive Officer and Vice President of Operations / Accountable Manager at a national airline. Combines high-level strategic oversight with deep technical expertise as a commercial pilot. Extensive background in airline operations, safety management, regulatory compliance, and organizational leadership.

Acting Chief Executive Officer - Surinam Airways (SLM) - Paramaribo, Suriname

(2022-08 - 2025-12)

• Directed overall airline strategy, operations, and corporate governance during a period of organizational transition.
• Oversaw executive leadership teams across operations, safety, and administrative functions.
• Ensured regulatory compliance with national and international aviation authorities.
• Represented the organization in high-level stakeholder engagements and regulatory matters.

Vice President Operations & Accountable Manager - Surinam Airways (SLM) - Paramaribo, Suriname

(2020-07 - 2025-12)

• Held full responsibility and accountability for flight operations, safety compliance, and operational performance during previous tenure.

VP Operations / Accountable Manager - Surinam Airways (SLM) - Paramaribo, Suriname

(2017-07 - 2018-08)

• Held full responsibility for flight operations, safety compliance, and operational performance.
• Ensured adherence to ICAO, Regulatory and IATA standards across all operational areas.
• Led implementation of operational improvements and risk mitigation strategies.
• Supervised multi-disciplinary teams and coordinated cross-departmental functions.

Director of Safety - Surinam Airways (SLM) - Paramaribo, Suriname

(2008-04 - 2017-07)

• Led development and implementation of Safety Management System (SMS).
• Conducted internal audits and aviation safety investigations.
• Strengthened organizational compliance and safety culture.

Quality Assurance Auditor - Surinam Airways (SLM) - Paramaribo, Suriname

(1998-02 - 2008-04)

• Performed quality assurance audits across operational and technical departments, both internal and external.

Airline Captain (B777 / A340 / B737) - Surinam Airways (SLM) - Paramaribo, Suriname

(1992-06 - 2025-12)

• Accumulated 14,887+ total flight hours in commercial aviation.
• Served as Captain on B737, A340, B777 and other aircraft types.
• Conducted extensive international flight operations.
• From 2003-2005 operated as F/O B747-300 at KLM -SLM joint venture.

Mechanical Engineering - Technical University Delft

Senior High School - Mr. J.C. de Miranda Lyceum

Junior High School - George Assin MULO School