Aurigny has announced key appointments to its senior leadership team as it gears up for its 2025 operations.
Philip Smallwood (pictured) has been named the airline’s new Chief Operations Officer, bringing over 30 years of aviation experience, including 16 years at easyJet. Philip has delivered efficient airline operations at a wide variety of airports throughout Europe, including London Gatwick. His knowledge and expertise also extend to regional and island airline operations from his time at British Airways CitiExpress, when he was based in the Isle of Man.
The airline 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, drawing from years’ experience at First Choice Airways and easyJet, where he oversaw recruitment and managed relations with more than 4,000 pilots across eight countries.
Supporting him in this role will be Dave Cox, Aurigny’s Deputy Accountable Manager and Head of Ground Operations. Dave has over 20 years of experience with Aurigny and a deep understanding of the airline’s current operations. Along with Phillip and Dave, the airline’s senior operational management team is comprised of Dan Saunders, Leon Mitchell and James Smart, who are responsible for Safety and Compliance, Operations and Crew Scheduling and Flight Operations.
Aurigny CEO, Nico Bezuidenhout said: “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.
“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.”
