On March 18, 2024, London Gatwick Airport announced the addition of Mark Johnston to its executive team as the new Chief Operating Officer (COO). Johnston, an accomplished leader in the aviation sector, transitions to Gatwick after more than three years at AGS Airports, where he significantly contributed to the operations of Aberdeen, Glasgow, and Southampton airports.
Johnston’s extensive career in airport management spans over two decades, during which he has led various critical departments including security, technical services, infrastructure, and airport terminal operations. In his new role at London Gatwick, Johnston is poised to ensure the airport’s operations are safe, efficient, and seamless for all passengers and staff. He will also spearhead strategic projects aimed at enhancing security protocols and improving aerodrome performance, overseeing key departments such as passenger operations and security.
Before his tenure at AGS Airports, Johnston’s career began in the global semiconductor industry, eventually leading him to Glasgow Airport in 2004. There, he ascended through several leadership positions, culminating in his appointment as Managing Director in May 2018, before taking on the COO role at AGS Airports in November 2020.
Expressing his enthusiasm about his new position, Johnston stated, “I am thrilled to be joining the UK’s second busiest airport where we operate the world’s most efficient runway. London Gatwick has exceptional people who work hard every day to deliver a personalized experience, that is easy and efficient for all. It is an incredibly exciting time to be joining London Gatwick and I am thoroughly looking forward to getting started and meeting all the team.”
Stewart Wingate, CEO of London Gatwick, welcomed Johnston, highlighting his proven track record and extensive experience. Wingate emphasized Johnston’s crucial role in enhancing Gatwick’s operations and passenger experiences as the airport pursues its vision of being accessible to every traveler. Wingate also expressed gratitude to John Higgins for his interim leadership in the COO role over the past 15 months.
Johnston’s leadership arrives at a pivotal time for London Gatwick as it invests in its future, including a plan to bring its Northern Runway into routine use, promising to bolster resilience, minimize delays, and contribute to economic growth by facilitating trade, tourism, and job creation.
