Alberto Martin has been appointed chief executive of London Luton Airport with immediate effect.

Martin, the airport’s current planning and investment director, will replace current chief Nick Barton who has taken the decision to step down from his role to take up a new professional challenge in the New Year.

Martin is a highly experienced and well-regarded airport leader, who has successfully delivered LLA’s recently completed £160 million terminal transformation project.

He also recently oversaw the preparations and negotiations for Luton Borough Council’s £225 million Direct Air-Rail Transit, which will link the airport terminal with Luton Airport Parkway by 2021. 

Before joining LLA, Martin gained 20 years’ experience in airports, holding a variety of executive roles across Europe, including ten years as managing director of Gran Canaria and Fuerteventura airports. 

Following on from the single biggest transformation in LLA’s 80-year history, and record growth in passenger numbers, Alberto will lead the airport in delivering passengers a world-class travel experience, a stronger local economy and much needed air capacity in the south-east.

During Barton’s time as leader the airport has grown from 9.7 million to 16.5 million passengers a year, establishing LLA as one of the fastest-growing major airports in Europe.

Commenting on his appointment, Alberto Martin said: “Building on the strong demand from passengers and the success of our recent terminal transformation, I’m delighted to have the opportunity to lead the team in establishing LLA as the airport of choice for accessible, easy and enjoyable air travel.”