Bristol Airport Chief Executive Dave Lees to Step Down After Eight Years
Dave Lees, the chief executive of Bristol Airport, has announced he will stand down from his role after eight years at the helm. He will remain in post until a successor is appointed and will support a transition period through to the end of this year.
Unprecedented Growth Under Leadership
During his tenure, Lees oversaw a period of remarkable expansion for the airport, which became majority-owned by Macquarie Asset Management last year. Passenger numbers surged under his guidance, with the airport handling 10.8 million passengers in 2025. Key achievements include the delivery of a public transport interchange and the successful planning application to increase annual passenger capacity to 12 million.
More recently, Lees led efforts on the next stage of growth outlined in the airport's masterplan to 2040, including launching a planning application to further boost passenger numbers to 15 million per year. He also steered the airport through the challenges of the pandemic, driving what is described as the strongest post-pandemic recovery of any major UK airport.
Financial Performance and Community Impact
In the 2024 financial year, Bristol Airport reported revenues rising from £179.2 million to £204.4 million, with pre-tax profits increasing from £3.8 million to £12.2 million. After taxation, the airport posted losses of £1.69 million. Car parking contributed significantly to revenue, generating £75.6 million.
Lees highlighted his pride in leading the team, stating, "It has been the highlight of my career to lead an amazing, talented and committed team which continues to deliver responsible growth connecting our region to an increasing number of destinations." He also noted the airport's industry-leading position on its pathway to deliver net zero airport operations by 2030.
Board Appreciation and Future Prospects
Jason Holt, chairman of Bristol Airport, expressed the board's appreciation for Lees' efforts, saying, "Dave has taken the airport to where it is today through inspired leadership that now sets up the business to build on his work." Holt emphasized that Lees' tenure has safeguarded future growth and prosperity, with potential future growth expected to deliver over 1,000 new jobs and enhanced long-haul connectivity to global markets.
Legal Challenges and Regional Dynamics
Last month, Bristol Airport's legal challenge against the Welsh Government's £205 million subsidiary support package for rival Cardiff Airport was rejected by the Competition Appeal Tribunal. Bristol had claimed the financial support breached the Subsidy Control Act and would put it at a commercial disadvantage, as around 20% of its annual passengers come from South Wales. The airport is currently considering whether to lodge an appeal.
As Dave Lees prepares to pass the baton, his legacy includes significant improvements for customers, airlines, and the community, positioning Bristol Airport for continued expansion and regional impact in the years ahead.
