Sam EmanuelNorwich Airport has appointed a new chief executive who hopes to 'build on the enormous progress made at the airport during the past year'.Andrew Bell has taken the role after two months acting in an interim capacity, during which time he has already delivered an agreement with KLM to re-establish the fourth daily flight to Amsterdam.Sam Emanuel

Norwich Airport has appointed a new chief executive who hopes to 'build on the enormous progress made at the airport during the past year'.

Andrew Bell has taken the role after two months acting in an interim capacity, during which time he has already delivered an agreement with KLM to re-establish the fourth daily flight to Amsterdam.

He said: 'Not only does the airport now offer a significant number of new holiday destinations, thanks to the commitment of the staff and management team the airport is poised to take advantage of the economic upturn when it arrives.

'The airport faces both great challenge and opportunity and I see my role as balancing the two whilst building a sustainable future for the business and maintaining an essential public service for the local community.'

Dr Godfrey Ainsworth, chairman of Norwich Airport and of its owners, Omniport Holdings Limited, said: 'During Andrew's period as group finance director he has demonstrated a strong commercial acumen and sound business sense.

'He has worked closely with the airport's management team over recent years and led the team in the preparation of this year's budget and five year plan.

'The business is well placed to continue the recovery from the recession and downturn in the aviation industry and we expect to see some exciting developments in the years ahead. I wish him every success in his new role.'