Reach Airports, the U.S.-based joint venture between Munich Airport International’s (MAI) US holding and CAG Holdings, announces the appointment of Andrew O’Brian as the company’s new Chief Executive Officer. As an experienced business leader, O’Brian will assume responsibilities at Reach Airports on August 1, 2021.
Having successfully served in a number of key leadership positions in the aviation sector over the past decades, Andrew brings a wealth of expertise. His broad background, coupled with his deep understanding of how to transform business performance while leveraging operational resources, will guide Reach Airports in providing management, consulting and training services to airports in the North American market. In his new role, he will be responsible for overall company management, business development, and cooperation with airport-related partner firms.
“Andrew is a well-respected senior executive in the aviation industry. He has a track record of developing best-in-class airport organizations that provide premium service to clients and customers – this is exactly the caliber we are looking for to further build up Reach Airports as a strategic partner to airports, airlines and the public. Together we will bring Munich Airport’s operational expertise and outstanding consulting and training approach to shape the US’ aviation infrastructure for the future demands in mobility,” says Dr. Ralf Gaffal, Managing Director at MAI.
“We are happy that Andrew O’Brian, a respected expert in aviation, is taking over leadership at Reach Airports,” shares Amit Rikhy, President and CEO at CAG Holdings. “His experience will support further growth of Reach Airports’ footprint in the North American market and beyond.”
Mr. O´Brian is currently President and CEO of Quiport, a SPV launched to invest, build and operate the Quito International Airport, in the high Andes mountains of South America. He has been part of a global team of lenders, investors, developers and engineers to build a brand new greenfield international airport in the city of Quito (Ecuador). The airport today provides 9,000 full time jobs to the community with millions of dollars of direct and indirect impact to the city and the country, while passenger and cargo traffic has grown year on year since opening in 2013.
Under his leadership, Quito Airport has received over 20 industry and passenger awards including consecutive accolades as South American’s Leading Airport from World Travel Awards and Best Regional Airport from Skytrax. In 2020, the airport also received the 5-star Skytrax qualification making it the first and only airport in the Americas region to have this distinction and be part of an elite group of airports in the world recognized for their efficiency and service level.
Before joining the Quito International Airport, Mr. O’Brian was CEO of Aerodom in the Dominican Republic; a package of six airports matched with substantial capital investment programs, all wrapped into a challenging Latin American business environment.
“I am delighted to be joining Reach Airports in Washington, DC, later this summer,” comments Andrew O’Brian. “I look forward to building on CAG’s and Munich Airport International’s previous global success, to now lead unique and exciting airport operations, consulting and training opportunities; all tailored to the North American market and following our vision to operate throughout the Americas region. Together we support airports in becoming and staying fit for the future, and I am excited to contribute to this excellent professional team.”
Andrew is currently President of the Airports Council International (ACI) Latin America / Caribbean Regional Board that represents the interests of 69 operators from more than 275 airports in 34 countries. He also sits on the ACI World Governing Board and is a vice chair for the international board (IAAE) of the American Association of Airport Professionals (AAAE).
