Luton Airport appoints former Go Ahead boss as new chairman

Former Go Ahead boss Keith Ludeman has been appointed the new chairman of Luton Airport as of today.

Ludeman, who is the current chairman of HS1, the high-speed link between London and the Channel Tunnel, joins the airport following its completion of its £160m new terminal.

Read more: Over 1m passengers used Luton Airport in March

Passenger numbers at London Luton Airport (LLA) grew to 1.3m passengers in March, up 10.4 per cent on the same month last year. Steady growth has meant Luton is now the UK's fifth largest airport. By 2020, it expects to handle 18m passengers.

Ludeman said: “LLA is in a really exciting period of growth with strong demand from passengers and a growing choice of international routes. I am looking forward to working with the board and airport team to help guide the business through a new post-transformation phase as we work to establish our status as a leading UK airport that is first choice for passengers, good for the community and a vital asset to the UK.”

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Luton's chief executive, Alberto Martin, added: “Keith has an enviable reputation in the UK transport and infrastructure sectors. He will be a great addition to the board, bringing valuable knowledge and experience as we move into a new phase which is focused on creating a world class experience for passengers and ensuring sustainable growth for our community as we continue to meet the ongoing demand for aviation capacity.”