Airports Council International (ACI) World director general Luis Felipe de Oliveira has announced he is to step down from his role at the end of 2024. This departure is driven by family reasons, with de Oliveira expressing his desire to return to Europe with his family after four impactful years at the helm of ACI World.

Taking on the role during the challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic, de Oliveira steered ACI World through the severe crisis in the aviation sector. While challenges remain in the airport industry and will require long-term attention, he asserts that he leaves with a sense of a mission accomplished.

“Leading ACI World as director general over the past four years has been a great honor,” said de Oliveira. “The mission that ACI champions, the benefits it weaves for our global members, our devoted staff who bring its vision to life, and the boundless social and economic impact of a flourishing aviation industry, all stir the embers of my spirit.

“My commitment to this noble cause will remain steadfast in my final year as ACI World director general. It is with a heavy heart that I announce my departure, but with a sense of accomplishment and gratitude to the organization. As I reflect on my next professional chapter with my family, I’m filled with optimism and drive to tackle new challenges.”

Some of de Oliveira’s notable accomplishments were fortifying the financial foundation of the organization, doubling reserves, increasing operational margins and reducing expenses. He spearheaded a digital transformation and implemented an information technology roadmap, ensuring ACI World’s readiness for the future.

Beyond financial successes, de Oliveira enhanced the authority and visibility of airports in the aviation sector. He revitalized the Airport Management Professional Accreditation Program (AMPAP) and secured recognition for ACI World as a Great Place to Work, with a 23% increase in employee satisfaction, surpassing industry benchmarks.

Sheik Aimen Al Hosni, CEO of Oman Airports and chair of ACI World, said, “It is with a deep sense of gratitude that we bid farewell to Luis Felipe de Oliveira. Over the past years, his leadership and camaraderie have been pivotal to our achievements at ACI World. His vision and friendship have been a beacon of inspiration, and while he will be greatly missed, we look forward to honoring his legacy as we continue to soar to new heights. On behalf of Oman Airports and the ACI World Board, we wish him every success in his future endeavors.”

“I thank Felipe for his dedicated and focused leadership during one of the most tumultuous periods in the history of aviation,” said Candace McGraw, CEO of the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport and incoming chair of ACI World. “We will work closely together over the next year to ensure the ongoing, continued success of the organization during this transition.”

De Oliveira’s early announcement of his departure aims to provide ample time for a smooth transition, ensuring the continued stability of the organization. As he expresses his gratitude towards ACI board members, World Business Partners, the Executive Committee, and Regional Directors, he reserves a special acknowledgment for the ACI World team.

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