London City Airport appoints Andy Cliffe as chief executive

London City Airport has appointed Andy Cliffe as its chief executive, succeeding Alison FitzGerald, who will step down following a managed handover period.

 

A statement about his appointment said it comes “at a pivotal moment as the airport enters a significant phase of investment, development and growth”.

 

Cliffe has held senior leadership roles at Manchester Airports Group and most recently served as group CEO of AGS Airports in the UK.

 

During his tenure at AGS Airports, he delivered key infrastructure and commercial developments that positioned Aberdeen, Glasgow and Southampton airports for growth, said the statement.

 

Cliffe is an operating partner at Macquarie Asset Management and supported its acquisition of a stake in London City Airport which completed in 2025.

 

More: Australian investment giant takes control of London City airport

 

He then joined the airport’s board as a non‑executive director, where he has helped to shape its long‑term strategic priorities under the new ownership.

 

The appointment comes as London City Airport prepares for major growth following government approval to increase annual passenger capacity from 6.5 million to nine million.

 

The airport is also seeking regulatory approval to introduce the Airbus A320neo which would unlock further network, sustainability and efficiency benefits.

 

Mel Ewell, chair of London City Airport, said: “On behalf of the board, I am delighted to welcome Andy Cliffe as our new CEO. His depth of experience and proven leadership across the aviation sector makes him the ideal person to guide London City Airport into this exciting next chapter.

 

“I would also like to express our sincere thanks to Alison for over a decade of service and the outstanding legacy she leaves, from leading major technology transformation as CIO, to modernising airport operations as COO, and most recently steering the business with clarity and resilience as CEO. The platform she has created provides a strong foundation for future success.”

 

Cliffe added: “London City has a unique market position and an exceptional opportunity ahead of it.

 

“LCY consistently sets the gold standard for customer service among London’s airports and is the closest airport for more than half of all Londoners.

 

“I look forward to working with the talented LCY team and our partners to build on the strong foundations created by Alison, to deliver sustainable growth, enhance our airline offering and ensure the airport continues to play a vital role for London and the UK economy.”

 

FitzGerald added: “It has been an honour to lead this fantastic airport and to work alongside such an incredible team.

 

“I am proud of our achievements and the progress we have made in strengthening the airport’s operations, customer experience and future growth potential.

 

“I am grateful for the support shown to the airport by our airline and industry partners throughout my time at LCY, and I look forward to seeing the airport continue to thrive in the years ahead.”