New Gatwick chief executive joins as runway decision nears

Gatwick’s new chief executive, Pierre-Hugues Schmit, has started in his role today (September 1), just weeks ahead of a government decision on the airport’s Northern Runway planning application.

 

Schmit joins the airport from his previous role as chief commercial and operational Officer at Vinci Airports, Gatwick’s majority shareholder.

 

He succeeds Stewart Wingate, who also begins his new position as UK Airports managing director today, overseeing the strategic direction of Gatwick, Edinburgh and Belfast International airports.

 

Wingate’s role has been newly created by Vinci Airports and Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP) which manages the rest of the airport’s shares.

 

More: Gatwick boss elevated to group role after 15 years

 

In Schmit’s previous role, he oversaw operations across the entire Vinci Airports portfolio, which comprises 70 airports in 14 countries.

 

A decision on Gatwick’s runway application is expected by October 27.

 

The airport said, if approved, routine use of the Northern Runway will unlock 14,000 new jobs and an additional £1 billion in economic benefits every year.

 

Schmit said: “London Gatwick is the UK’s second busiest airport and plays a vital role enabling trade, tourism and economic growth both regionally and across the country.

 

“This is an exciting time to join, with more airlines than ever before using the airport and a final decision from the government on our Northern Runway planning application just weeks away. 

 

“I’m looking forward to working with everyone to keep improving the service we provide and realising the significant growth opportunities that lie ahead.”