Managing director flying high with global award nomination

An airport managing director, renowned for his ‘drive and dedication’, has been shortlisted for a prestigious international award.

Phil Forster, who joined Teesside International Airport in 2019 and has overseen rising passenger numbers and a raft of new developments, is a finalist for the 2024 Airport Leader for the Future award at the Airport Honour Awards.

Under Phil’s leadership, the airport has completed a multi-million-pound terminal renovation, gained customs zone status within the Teesside Freeport, expanded the Teesside Airport Business Park and cargo facilities, as well as setting its sights on becoming the UK’s first operational net-zero airport by 2030.

Phil said: “It’s an honour to be nominated for this award and it’s a testament to the hard work our airport team puts in day and night.

“We know there’s plenty to do to continue to turn Teesside around and push it further into profit but with the team, the talent and tenacity we have, I know we have what it takes to go even further.”

2024 has been a particularly successful year for the airport, following on from being named UK and Irish Airport of the Year at the TTG Travel Industry Awards in 2023. With the return of TUI flights to Dalaman, record summer passenger numbers, a new five-year deal with FedEx, and the airport returning a profit for the first time in over a decade, the future is certainly looking bright.

Tees Valley mayor Ben Houchen added: “Phil has been a big part of what we have achieved so far at our airport. His drive and dedication have been pivotal in turning around our fortunes.

“There’s plenty still to do, as we look to secure more flights, more routes, more businesses and more investors to our airport for the people of Teesside, Darlington and Hartlepool.”

The winner will be announced on 13 November at the International Airport Summit in Amsterdam.

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