The 60-year-old became acting secretary general in December 2019, replacing fellow German Susanne Schödel who resigned after almost six years at the helm. 

Haggeney has now been confirmed as secretary general by the FAI Board. 

"I am delighted to be given the opportunity to take up this new challenge," Haggeney said. 

"With the FAI Office, and in collaboration with all the FAI community, the objective is now to ensure that FAI gets stronger and stronger as an organisation. 

"Stabilisation and consolidation are the key words for the times ahead."

Haggeney represented Germany in ballooning for 15 years and carried out extensive volunteer work for the FAI Air Sport General Commission, the FAI Ballooning Commission and the German Ballooning Federation. 

He went on to join the FAI as sports and events director in 2014. 

In that role, Haggeney was successful in the development of air sport and cultivated ties with other International Federations and stakeholders. 

"I am very pleased that Markus has accepted the position of secretary general and I believe that this is a good decision for the future of the FAI," said FAI President Bob Henderson.