David Edwards has been appointed as the chief executive of the Royal Aeronautical Society (RAeS) in place of Sir Brian Burridge who is stepping down. David Edwards will take over as chief executive on September 20.
Until recently Edwards was chief executive of the Air Charter Association and led that organisation through a significant period of change and growth and represented the sector to government and regulators during the Brexit transition and COVID-19.
He also has experience as a former executive vice president of Qatar Airways and 15 years with Gama Aviation, where latterly he headed the company’s expansion into the Middle and Far East, as well as serving on the group’s board.
Edwards has been a member of the Royal Aeronautical Society since 1999 and was appointed a Fellow in 2010. He’s had a Private Pilot’s Licence since he was 17 and holds a degree in Transport Management from the University of Plymouth.
He is a strong advocate for diversity, inclusion and encouraging the next generation of talent to join the aviation and aerospace industries.
David Edwards said: “I am delighted to be joining the Royal Aeronautical Society at this challenging, but nonetheless exciting time.
“Sir Brian and the team have placed the Society in a really strong position to embrace the collective knowledge of our membership and contribute to global debates on issues such as aviation’s contribution to climate change, the burgeoning space industry, supporting tomorrow’s aerospace professionals and promoting diversity.
“I am looking forward to carrying on that work and ensuring that the Royal Aeronautical Society continues to grow its membership and its relevance within our industries and beyond.”
