Angela Gittens will retire in June following an extensive career in aviation.

Luis Felipe de Oliveira will succeed Angela Gittens as Airports Council International (ACI) World Director General in June, the Board has announced.

Gittens, who previously indicated she would retire in June, has helmed the organisation dubbed ‘the voice of the world’s airports’ for 12 years.

During that time she has strengthened advocacy efforts on behalf of its members while ensuring airports maintain the highest levels of performance and management, said ACI World.

“ACI is recognised as the only truly global representative of the world’s airports and we, our members, and the aviation industry, are enormously grateful for her unrivalled dedication, hard work and achievements,” read a statement.

Luis Felipe de Oliveira.

TRANSITION PERIOD

Replacing Gittens is de Oliveira, a familiar face in the aviation industry as the current Executive Director and CEO of the Latin American and Caribbean Air Transport Association (ALTA).  He will take up his new position in June with a 30-day formal transition.

Prior to joining ALTA, de Oliveira held senior roles with World Fuel Services and Shell and has served with the International Air Transport Association (IATA). 

“Felipe is an aviation leader with decades of experience in business development and strategic planning, and has led international teams, in the private and non-profit sectors,” said ACI World Governing Board Chair Martin Eurnekian.

“Throughout his career in the aviation industry, he has established a strong record of building relationships at a global level and in the Americas, Middle East and Africa regions to advocate on behalf of the organisations he has represented.

“This experience will stand him in good stead at ACI World as he builds on the tremendous success that Angela Gittens has delivered in the 12 years leading the organisation.”

De Oliveira added: “I am honoured to have been appointed to serve this important organisation and continue actively working to develop the aviation industry, now as the voice of the airports around the world.

“It is not an easy task to replace Angela after so many successful years leading the organisation with excellent results. With the support of the great ACI team in Montréal and the regions, we will be able to efficiently serve our members to improve this fascinating industry.”