Pierre-Hugues Schmit spent eight years as Chief Commercial and Operational Officer at Vinci Airports, which comprises 70 airports globally in 14 countries handling more than 300m passengers.

Pierre-Hugues Schmit has today (1 September) taken up the leadership reins at London Gatwick Airport (LGW).

LGW publicly named the experienced industry executive and former Chief Commercial and Operational Officer at Vinci Airports as the successor to Stewart Wingate earlier this year.

“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,” stated Pierre-Hugues Schmit, Chief Executive Officer, London Gatwick.

“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.

“Our  teams work extremely hard every day to ensure we provide an efficient, enjoyable and accessible experience for passengers. I’m looking forward to working with everyone to keep improving the service we provide and realising the significant growth opportunities that lie ahead.”

Schmit’s appointment comes as the airport eyes a government decision on the Northern Runway planning application.

If approved, it could create 14,000 new jobs and provide an extra £1 billion in economic benefit every year, maintains Gatwick Airport. A final decision is due by 27 October.

On a related note, Wingate today begins in a new position as Managing Director, UK Airports, a role created by Vinci Airports and Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP).