Since taking up the role eight years ago he has overseen a huge rise in passenger numbers
Chief executive of Bristol Airport, David Lees, is standing down after eight years in the role. He will remain in post until a successor is appointed and will support a transition period through to the end of this year.
Under his leadership, the airport – which became majority-owned by Macquarie Asset Management last year – has seen a unprecedented growth in passenger numbers and the delivery of a number of major projects, including the public transport interchange as well as the positive outcome of a planning application to increase passengers to 12 million per annum.
More recently he has led on the next stage of growth outlined in airport’s masterplan to 2040 as well as launching the planning application to increase passenger numbers to 15 million a year. It handled 10.8 million in 2025.
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He also steered the airport through the pandemic and then drove the strongest post-pandemic recovery of any UK major airport.
Mr Lees said: “It has been the highlight of my career to lead an amazing, talented and committed team which continues to deliver responsible growth connecting our region to an increasing number of destinations. Together we have delivered significant improvements for our customers, airlines and the community which we are proud to serve including our industry leading position on our pathway to deliver net zero airport operations by 2030.”
The airport’s chairman Jason Holt said: “It falls to me to register the board’s appreciation and thanks for Dave’s efforts over the last eight years. Dave has taken the airport to where it is today through inspired leadership that now sets up the business to build on his work. As Dave passes the baton to his successor, his tenure has safeguarded future growth and prosperity for the airport and its positive impact on the region.
“This is especially so with potential future growth delivering upwards of 1,000 new jobs with increasing long-haul connectivity to global markets. I look forward to continuing to work with Dave for the remainder of the year. As a board we wish him all the very best for the future as he looks back with pride to the fitting legacy and opportunity he leaves behind for the community and our customers.”
In its 2024 financial year the airport grew revenues from £179.2m a year earlier to £204.4m. Its pre-tax profit level rose from £3.8m to £12.2m. After taxation it posted losses of £1.69m. Its biggest revenue contribution came from car parking with £75.6m.
Last month the airport’s legal challenge against Welsh Government plans for a £205m subsidiary support package to rival Cardiff Airport, was rejected in a ruling from the Competition Appeal Tribunal.
Bristol unsuccessfully claimed that the financial support over the next decade from the Cardiff Bay administration to the airport, which it acquired in 2013 for £52m, breached the Subsidy Control Act and would put it at a commercial disadvantage.
Around 20% of Bristol’s annual passenger are drawn from South Wales. Bristol is currently considering whether to lodge an appeal.
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