airport administrator, responsible for the UK's airport with the most flight disruptions, receives promotion
New Boss Takes Over at London Gatwick Airport
London Gatwick Airport has some fresh leadership, as Stewart Wingate steps down after 15 years as CEO, moving into a new role as Managing Director, UK Airports for Vinci Airports and Global Infrastructure Partners (GIP).
With Wingate's departure, Pierre-Hugues Schmit, currently the chief commercial and operational officer at Vinci Airports and a non-executive director on the London Gatwick board, will take the reins as the airport's CEO. Both assume their new roles on 1 September 2025.
Vinci Airports, through its 50.01% stake in Gatwick, also owns Edinburgh Airport, while GIP manages the remaining 49.99%. Belfast International Airport is wholly owned by Vinci Airports. Wingate will now oversee the growth and strategic direction of all three airports, with each CEO reporting to him.
In a joint statement to the London Stock Exchange, Nicolas Notebaert, CEO of Vinci Concessions and president of Vinci Airports, and Michael McGhee, deputy chairman of GIP, praised Wingate's tenure at Gatwick. During his time, passenger numbers climbed from 30 million in 2009 to over 43 million, fueled by growth in long-haul routes and strategic airline relationships. Wingate also oversaw major transformations in areas such as runway and airfield operations, security, and sustainability.
Schmit, with his extensive experience in the aviation sector and as a board member for London Gatwick, is well-equipped to manage the growth opportunities ahead for London Gatwick. The airport has continued to expand its long-haul offerings, with even more airlines serving it than ever before. In 2024, 43.2 million passengers passed through the airport, representing a 5.7% increase year-over-year, and generating £342.9 million in profit on revenues of £1.1 billion. However, the airport has faced challenges related to flight delays, averaging over 23 minutes behind schedule in 2024, due to air traffic control disruptions.
In his new role, Schmit will focus on leading the airport through its growth journey, maintaining seamless access to global and domestic markets, and delivering substantial trade and economic benefits in the South-East and beyond. Wingate, who handpicked Schmit for the role, expressed his confidence in Schmit's leadership and looked forward to working with him in his new capacity.
The shift in leadership at London Gatwick Airport, with Pierre-Hugues Schmit taking over as CEO, opens up opportunities for collaboration in various sectors. Schmit, with his aviation expertise and background in business, finance, and markets, will aim to enhance transport industry operations, foster strategic airline partnerships, and bolster the airport's overall economy by ensuring seamless connections to international and domestic markets.
