Newcastle Airport’s Paul McFarlane Flying the Flag for NSW/ACT in new appointment to AAA

Head of Newcastle Airport Security and Operational Resilience, Paul McFarlane is flying high after his appointment as Divisional Chair of the Australian Airports Association (AAA) NSW/ACT.

The AAA is the national voice representing the interests of more than 340 airports, and aerodromes Australia wide. 

Mr McFarlane, who will replace outgoing NSW/ACT Division Chair Nick Politis, said he had big shoes to fill and was greatly honoured to have been given this opportunity to support member airports across NSW and the ACT.

With a wealth of experience in the aviation industry spanning almost 20 years. Mr McFarlane has worked at Newcastle Airport in a senior management capacity since November 2020, when he commenced as Manager of Operations.

Newcastle Airport Executive General Manager Aviation Shane de Wit said Paul was an ideal choice for the role of Divisional Chair NSW/ACT. “Having immersed himself in airport life for many years, Paul is well-equipped to offer valuable advice and mentorship,” Mr de Wit said.

“The AAA is excited to welcome Paul McFarlane to this role, and we know he’ll be a dedicated advocate for NSW and ACT airports,” AAA Chief Operating Officer said.  “Some regional airports are facing a challenging period after Rex Airlines entered voluntary administration and it will be reassuring to have someone as experienced as Paul to help guide our members through this process.”

Mr McFarlane said he was truly proud to have been elected to this role as he grew up around airports and has been passionate about the industry from an early age. "Airports, particularly in regional areas, continue to face a number of challenges in the evolving world of aviation and I hope to use my experience to advocate for our members and provide a voice where I can,” Mr McFarlane said. 

"Airport life is in my blood, and I look forward to engaging with the teams at these critical facilities as part of my role as Divisional Chair for the NSW/ACT region.”

Mr McFarlane said his life at Newcastle Airport was particularly rewarding with a once-in-a-lifetime, transformational terminal expansion taking place. “Airports are the ultimate gateways to other destinations and now with Newcastle Airport getting international ready, it is becoming a true global gateway which is amazing for NSW aviation and capacities and regional economies.”