A NEW boss has touched down at Bournemouth Airport.

Managing director Stephen Gill, who started work yesterday, was previously chief executive of Doncaster Sheffield Airport and Durham Tees Valleys Airport.

He will be responsible for strategic development as well as general management under Regional & City Airports, part of the Rigby Group.

His appointment comes 10 months after the group bought the airport for an undisclosed sum.

It aims to double passenger numbers to 1.5million over the next five years.

Regional & City Airports chief executive Andrew Bell said: “Stephen Gill’s credentials shone through in a rigorous selection process – he is an accomplished businessman with exemplary skills in strategic management and leadership.

“Stephen has the experience, drive and know-how to deliver our strategic growth plans as we look to double passenger numbers to 1.5million at Bournemouth Airport over the next five years.

“RCA is very encouraged by the support received from both the public and business community during the first 10 months of our ownership.

“With Stephen in the pilot seat, the airport focus will continue to be the delivery of the connectivity the region needs today, using existing airport infrastructure.”

Rigby Group chief operating officer Steve Rigby said: “Stephen has the track record and vision to grow commercial and passenger activity, leveraging the group’s scale, contacts and expertise in regional aviation to deliver continued progression.

“Key is to make use of existing capacity to satisfy the market. Bournemouth Airport is best placed to meet the demands of the wider region.”

Mr Gill said: “This is an incredibly exciting time to be joining Bournemouth Airport, which is well supported by local passengers and the business community, bringing clear economic benefits to the region.

“The main objective will be to grow commercial and passenger activity at Bournemouth Airport, building on the substantial progress made since the RCA acquisition in December 2017.”