GB Airways has appointed John Patterson as its new Managing Director. He will join the Gatwick based carrier in January 2000.

John moves to the airline from British Airways, where he was Director of Alliances and, previously, Director of Strategy and Director of Operational Performance.

GB Airways serves 16 destinations in Portugal, Spain, the Mediterranean and North Africa from Gatwick and Heathrow; operating in the colours of British Airways, as its largest independently owned franchise. The airline launches daily flights to France (Nantes) next Spring.

Announcing the appointment, Joseph Gaggero, Chairman of GB Airways, said: “I am delighted that John has agreed to join us. His appointment confirms the close relationship between GB Airways and British Airways”

John Patterson said “I am very privileged to join GB Airways. It has built up an extremely successful operation during the past few years and has proved that franchising can succeed in the air transport sector. I look forward to developing the role for GB Airways in co-operation with British Airways and with other members of the oneworld alliance.”

Bob Ayling, Chief Executive of British Airways, said “I have worked with John since taking responsibility for British Airways’ operation in 1991. He has played an invaluable part in the progress made at British Airways in recent years. I am very pleased indeed to announce his appointment as MD of GB Airways, one of British Airways’ most successful franchise partners. I am confident that under John GB Airways will continue to build on its successful development”.

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