Welcome Linc Horton!
Newcastle Airport is set to embark on an exciting new chapter with the appointment of aviation and property expert, Mr. Linc Horton as Chief Executive Officer, from the 5th of May 2025. This appointment comes at a key time for the airport, as it prepares to unveil its highly anticipated international terminal and strengthen its position as a key player in Australia's defence and aerospace industries.
A Wealth of Experience
Mr. Horton brings an impressive track record to Newcastle Airport, having most recently served as the Global Head of Property for Toll Group, a logistics powerhouse with a revenue of $7.6 billion in FY22. His extensive background in airport management includes a significant tenure as Chief of Property at Melbourne Airport (Australia Pacific Airports Pty Ltd) from 2008 to 2020, where he demonstrated his expertise by growing the airport's commercial estate into a $105 million per annum revenue business. Mr. Horton is well known and respected for his deal making and commercial acumen and relationships with stakeholders.
Mr. Horton is currently Chair, North Link, a Melbourne business association that seeks to facilitate actions that support the sustainable economic development of Melbourne’s north and bring economic and social benefits to the region and its people. Mr. Horton is also the current Deputy Chair of the Regional Development Australia, Melbourne Committee.
Jude Munro, Board Chair of Newcastle Airport, expressed enthusiasm about the appointment, stating, “We are thrilled that Linc will be joining the airport to lead the airport team. He comes to the airport with a long and outstanding experience in airports and a history of achievements in property development and other airport-related negotiations.”
Timing is Everything
The timing of Mr. Horton's appointment is particularly opportune and will see him take the lead as Newcastle Airport starts to enable global connections.
International travel and connectivity are key drivers of our future growth, and the new international terminal is expected to unlock tremendous potential for the Hunter region, attracting an additional 850,000 visitors and contributing approximately $12.7 billion in economic activity to our region over the next 20 years.
Mr. Horton is eager to take on this new challenge, stating, "I am excited to be joining the airport at this time. It is clear the airport plays a pivotal role in the success of the Hunter Region and I look forward to playing my part."
Beyond Passenger Services
Newcastle Airport's growth extends far beyond passenger services. The airport is rapidly establishing itself as a hub for defence and aerospace industries. The ongoing development of the Astra Aerolab precinct will create a unique environment for globally significant research and development, enabling industry growth and collaboration between the Australian Defence Force (ADF), Defence Primes, specialist defence suppliers and various other industries, delivering highly skilled jobs for the Hunter region.
Thank you
As we welcome Mr. Horton to this crucial role, it's important to acknowledge the outstanding work of interim CEO Andrew Warrender, who has steered the airport in the right direction since January this year. Under his leadership, the airport has made significant strides, including the commencement of critical airfield reconfiguration works essential for international capabilities. We extend our sincere appreciation to Andrew for his tireless efforts and commitment to the airport's growth.
Looking Ahead
Mr. Horton is looking forward to his family’s move to the Hunter region with all that it has to offer a family of teenage children.
Newcastle Airport and our region welcome him and his family with open arms!