GB Airways has announced that Kevin Hatton has been appointed as Managing Director effective July 1, 2006. John Patterson will retire from GB at that date.John Patterson joined GB Airways in 2000.  Prior to his appointment his career with British Airways spanned 29 years culminating in several Director roles. 

Since joining the company, John’s responsibilities as Managing Director have been diverse - negotiating and maintaining the franchise agreement between British Airways and GB Airways up to 2010, launching a new base in Manchester, moving the airline into new headquarters at Gatwick’s Beehive, as well as building and increasing the portfolio of routes flown by GB to a total of 43 in summer 2006.

Kevin Hatton, another BA veteran, started his career as a general apprentice at BEA.

He undertook a series of roles in BA , both abroad and in the UK, which included a spell as Director of Operations based at Gatwick for then British Airways charter subsidiary British Airtours.

After a further stint overseas Kevin returned to the UK in 1988 as Head of UK and Ireland Passenger Sales and Marketing.

He was subsequently appointed Managing Director of BA World Cargo. In 2000 he was appointed to the position of Managing Director Britannia Airways and later took on the role of Chairman and Chief Executive of Tui Airline Management during which he led the team that set up ThomsonFly the new low cost carrier. Kevin was also on the Board of Tui(UK) whose brands include Thomson Holidays.

On announcing the appointment, James Gaggero, chairman of GB Airways said “John Patterson is a great character and his contribution during the airline’s rapid expansion has been invaluable. He will be sorely missed by everyone at GB Airways. However, as he steps down, I’m sure Kevin Hatton will harness his own great experience and devote energy and commitment to the company.”

John Patterson said, “I have thoroughly enjoyed the six years I have spent at GB Airways.  I am especially proud that during my tenure at GB Airways we have sustained and developed our relationship with BA and our route network.  In the face of the no frills competition we have thrived and continued to provide good customer service for which I thank each and every one of my colleagues in GB.”

Kevin Hatton said: “I’m looking forward to joining GB Airways’ strong team and will embrace this role with passion and dedication”.
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