James Bennett

Company: Abu Dhabi Airports Company (Adac)
Position: CEO

Biography: James Bennett became CEO of Adac in June 2010.

ADAC is responsible for the operation and management of Abu Dhabi International airport and Abu Dhabi’s smaller airports Al-Ain International, Al-Bateen Executive, Sir Bani Yas and Delma Island. One of Bennett’s chief responsibilities is overseeing the rapid expansion of the Abu Dhabi hub where a new midfield terminal is being built to support the growth ambitions of the UAE flag carrier Etihad Airways and the increasing passenger volumes passing through the airport.

State-owned Adac is responsible for the operation and management of five airports in Abu Dhabi. Bennett joined Adac after 14 years with the US’ Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority (Mwaa). Bennett joined Mwaa in 1996 as executive vice-president and chief operating officer and was appointed president and CEO in May 2003.

Prior to joining Mwaa, Bennett was assistant aviation director at Sky Harbor International airport in Phoenix, Arizona. He oversaw operations, finance and planning, business affairs and maintenance at Sky Harbor. Other previous roles include director of the Shreveport Airport Authority in Louisiana and director of aeronautics for the City of Flint, Michigan. Bennett was also manager of technical services for industry body Airport Operators Council International.

Bennett graduated from Auburn University in the US in 1978 with a degree in aviation management.

Contact: (+971) 2 505 5555
Company website: www.adac.ae/english/

Updated: 04.12.12