New managing director for Blackpool airport

Blackpool Airport has a new managing director tasked with establishing its growth strategy.

Steve Peters joins the team from his previous role as commercial director-Asia Pacific and board member for an aviation MRO (Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul) company at its UK head office.

Originally from New Zealand, Steve’s career break into aviation came in the UK in the early nineties with a corporate aircraft management company, where he was responsible for aircraft sales and acquisitions.

His extensive experience also includes aircraft management, remarketing, and consultancy work, working with eminent companies such as Japan Airlines and Mitsubishi Corporation in Tokyo, and establishing a flight simulator company back in New Zealand.

Steve also spent time as GM-commercial for a general aviation aircraft manufacturer.

He said: “The role at Blackpool Airport appeals on multiple fronts, not least the opportunity to work with the airport and Enterprise Zone teams to help realise aviation growth opportunities in aircraft operations and support.

“The first steps will be to fully understand the challenges and potential of the airport as a business, with a view to quickly establishing strategy around how the airport can grow over the next three to five years and developing the plans and timelines to deliver on that strategy.”

Cllr Gillian Campbell, Chair of BOAL (Blackpool Airport Operations Ltd) said: “After successfully transferring the CAA licences back under the control of the airport in November last year, the airport has been eagerly anticipating Steve’s appointment as the final piece of the puzzle to kick start the airport’s new independent journey, and we are delighted to welcome Steve to the team.

“We chose Steve for the position as we believe he has the right skills, experience and enthusiasm to lead the airport towards a brighter, more profitable, sustainable future as an important strategic transport hub for Lancashire.”