Philip Smallwood is taking over as Aurigny's Chief Operation's Officer, replacing retiring Carl Phelan.
Mr Smallwood, who has more than three decades worth of experience in aviation, including 16 years at EasyJet and time with First Choice Airway, is the final addition to the airline’s Senior Leadership team.
He should already be well accustomed to island life, having worked for British Airways CitiExpress when he was based in the Isle of Man.
Aurigny has welcomed his appointment, saying it is “concentrating on its operational resilience for the year ahead, including a focus on pilot recruitment and retention against the backdrop of pilot shortages globally. Philip’s extensive background in pilot resource management will play a pivotal role in this initiative”
That message is echoed by Aurigny’s CEO, Nico Bezuidenhout, who gave his new COO some glowing praise to welcome him to the company.
“Philip brings extensive, relevant experience in the fields of resource management and operations delivery from Europe’s leading airlines. I’m delighted to welcome him to our team.
“The skills and experience that comprise Aurigny’s operational management team represent a mix of global best practices with an in-depth understanding of local nuances. Together they bring 120 years of experience in commercial aviation to Aurigny, which we are confident will support our service delivery to the Bailiwick.”
That team is composed of Dave Cox - Aurigny’s Deputy Accountable Manager and Head of Ground Operations, Dan Saunders - the Safety and Compliance Manager, Leon Mitchell - who is responsible for Operations and Crew Scheduling , and James Smart - the Head of Flight Operations.
Newly retired Mr Phelan, who had been the Airline’s COO, got a special mention from his former boss Mr Bezuidenhout too.
“I’d also like to express my heartfelt thanks to our outgoing acting COO, Carl Phelan, for his significant contributions to the airline and wish him all the best in his retirement.”
Pictured top (inset): Philip Smallwood.
Comments
Comments on this story express the views of the commentator only, not Bailiwick Publishing. We are unable to guarantee the accuracy of any of those comments.