Welsh Labour Government-owned Cardiff Airport (CWL/EGFF) has appointed Jon Bridge, who runs Bridge Executive Consulting, as the new Chief Executive Officer of the struggling regional airport.
Jon comes from a background of retail and hospitality, having previously worked for Transport for Wales, SA Brains and House of Fraser.
Cardiff Airport was taken into public ownership by Welsh Labour in 2013 after they purchased for £52 million. Since then, it has invested £205 million, but the airport has continued to fail to attract airlines, resulting in significant annual losses.
The onus will now be on Jon to attempt to turn the fortunes of the airport around, something that several previous CEOs, including Spencer Birns and Deborah Barber, had failed to do.
Jon will take up the role from the 4th November 2025, with many anxious to hear what he has planned for the airport’s revival.
Speaking about the appointment, Jon said: “I’m honoured to be joining Cardiff Airport at such a pivotal time. The National Airport of Wales is a vital asset for our country, providing economic benefits, jobs and ensures global connectivity. We are striving to be the first choice for airline passengers and the centre of Wales’ aviation related industry.
“I’ll be working hard with our team and partners to continue the process of diversifying the business, driving growth, developing our people and ensuring we continue to provide an excellent experience for our customers.”
Interim CEO Andy Jones will return to his non-executive role on the airport’s board.