Cologne-Bonn appoints new CEO

The supervisory board of Cologne-Bonn Airport has unanimously elected Thilo Schmid CEO of the German airport.

Thilo Schmid will form the new management of Cologne-Bonn Airport together with the second managing director and CFO Torsten Schrank.

Prof. Klaus-Dieter Scheurle, chair of the supervisory board, said: “We are delighted that we have been able to secure the services of Thilo Schmid, a recognised airport expert who has both extensive knowledge of aviation and considerable experience in airport management.

Cologne-Bonn Airport is facing major economic and environmental challenges that need to be overcome on the path to climate-neutral airport operations. We are convinced that Thilo will carry out these tasks with great commitment and determination, together with all our staff, and will lead Cologne-Bonn Airport into a sustainable and successful future.”

Thilo Schmid previously worked at Dusseldorf Airport, which he joined as managing director handling services in 2012, becoming senior vice president aviation and accountable manager in 2019. He was responsible for all operational and commercial divisions at the airport, with approximately 900 employees.

Schmid has many years of experience in aviation and in his 20-year career has worked in the transport and logistics sector, including within the Lufthansa Group. He has occupied various managerial positions.

Thilo Schmid succeeds Johan Vanneste, who is leaving the airport on December 31.