Fiji Airways is searching for a new CEO after Stefan Pichler was named the new chief executive of German carrier Air Berlin.
Pilcher was appointed the head of Fiji Airways a year ago and in August became the chairman of Tourism Fiji.
Germany born Pichler is a former chief executive of Thomas Cook AG and held various management posts at Lufthansa.
Etihad Airways-backed Air Berlin has struggled for profitability in recent years and posted a loss of 201 million euros in the six months to June 2014.
Fiji Airways chairman Nalin Patel said the board would start immediately looking for a new chief executive.
"Our management team, each of our dear staff members and our loyal supporters in Fiji and abroad have been really unique and very special to me," Pichler said in a statement.
"As a remaining board member, I will help to make sure that Fiji Airways will become the best boutique airline in the world."
Pilcher is due to take over in his new role at Air Berlin in February.
