Emerge Aviation director Kevin Ducksbury has been appointed the new chairman of The Air Charter Association, succeeding Weston Aviation managing director Nick Weston. The appointment was made at the association's February board meeting following a vote and the endorsement of the board. Ducksbury is the first appointed chairman since the association's rebrand in 2019 and will formally take on the role at the spring lunch on 1 April.

In his presentation to the board, Ducksbury outlined his future vision for the association; growing its geographical footprint and promoting the air charter industry to the next generation of aviation professionals. Since joining the board in 2018, he has been an active participant and has driven forward many of the association's initiatives, including broker training, and notably launched and continues to produce the association's unique podcast.

Ducksbury has extensive experience in the air charter industry, with a 30 year career that includes working with Monarch Airlines and Air London (now Air Partner). While with Air Partner he worked in Dubai as regional director for the Middle East and Asia. Since returning to the UK in 2012 he has set up his own aviation consultancy and management services company, Emerge Aviation. Currently he is working in the ACMI leasing sector with Dubai based Air Charter International.

Outgoing chairman Weston comments: “I am delighted to hand as chairman to Kevin. I am sure the role will be in very safe hands and that he will continue the excellent work carried out by the association. I am proud to have served as chairman but, in order to maintain momentum, it is essential that we bring a new impetus to the role. I am sure that Kevin is very well equipped for this purpose.”

Ducksbury adds: “I am honoured and delighted to chair a board of dynamic and passionate air charter experts. The association has made great strides during Nick's tenure as chairman, and I look forward to pushing further with the drive and success that the board has created over the last few years, in order to provide the highest level of support to our members.”