Launceston Airport announces Katie Cooper as new CEO

Launceston Airport is pleased to announce the appointment of experienced aviation and transport executive Katie Cooper as its new chief executive officer.

Ms Cooper joins Launceston Airport from Metro Tasmania, where she has served as CEO for the past five years, bringing with her extensive experience in the aviation, transport and infrastructure sectors.

Prior to her role at Metro, Ms Cooper was at Melbourne Airport for almost five years, joining the airport as Head of Aviation Operations in 2015 before later becoming Head of Transformation, where she oversaw the integration of Qantas Terminal 1 into the wider airport operations.

She has also held senior roles in the aviation sector including General Manager at Alice Springs and Tennant Creek Airports, Head of Security at London Stansted Airport, and various executive roles at Air New Zealand and the Australian Airports Association.

Katie’s appointment will take effect from 11 August and will allow for a period of transition with outgoing CEO Shane O’Hare ahead of his last working day on 19 August.

Melbourne Airport CEO Lorie Argus said she was delighted to welcome a leader of Ms Cooper’s calibre.

“Katie brings a wealth of experience across both aviation and transport sectors and is deeply familiar with the strategic and operational needs of an airport environment,” she said.

“With Launceston Airport continuing to experience record growth, Katie’s demonstrated leadership in infrastructure delivery, commercial negotiation and stakeholder engagement will be critical as we continue to expand and improve our offering for northern Tasmania.

“I'd like to thank Shane O'Hare for his tireless work as Launceston Airport CEO for the last four years, Shane's stewardship during an incredibly challenging time in aviation has set the airport up well for future success."

Ms Cooper said she was excited to be returning to the airport sector and joining the Launceston Airport team.

“Launceston Airport plays an essential role in connecting Tasmanians with the mainland and beyond, and I’m honoured to be leading the next phase of its development,” she said.

“I look forward to working with the team, the board, our airline and business partners, and the broader community to continue delivering for Tasmania’s north.”

Launceston Airport CEO Shane O’Hare said he was proud to be handing over the reins to Ms Cooper, with the airport positioned for long-term success.

"It's been a privilege to lead this amazing team and this incredible airport for the past four years and I'm confident I'm leaving it in very good hands," he said.

"To play a part in transitioning the airport out of Covid recovery and into growth has been one of the biggest accomplishments of my professional career.

"I'd like to thank everyone at Launceston Airport for their support, and I look forward to cheering on the success of the airport from across the ditch."

For further information contact: Launceston Airport Media on (03) 9335 3666