The World Aviation Services Association (ASA) has announced the appointment of Hassan El-Houry as its new Chairman, effective July 1, 2024. He succeeds Mr. Atilla Korkmazoğlu, who served two successful mandates over four years.
El-Houry brings a blend of leadership, innovation, and strategic vision to ASA, further strengthening the aviation services sector's position. He is currently the Executive Chairman of Menzies Aviation, the leading service partner to the world’s airports and airlines, and former CEO of National Aviation Services (NAS). Under his leadership, Kuwait based NAS became the leading airport ground handling and cargo company in Africa, the Middle East, and South Asia. He was instrumental in the acquisition of Menzies Aviation by Agility and its integration with NAS, creating the world's largest aviation services company by number of airports and countries served.
In 2014, the World Economic Forum in Davos honoured him as a Young Global Leader for his contributions to aviation, and he has served as a member of the ASA board since 2022. As Chairman of the ASA, El-Houry will play a pivotal leadership role, guiding the strategic direction and operational effectiveness of the association.
“It is an honour and privilege to be elected by my peers as the next World Aviation Services Association (ASA) Chairman,” expressed Hassan El-Houry. “I am extremely excited to head up a new chapter in ASA history and take this opportunity to build momentum and position ASA as the leading advocate for aviation services. I look forward to building and strengthening industry partnerships and collaborating with regulators to enhance standards and improve the passenger experience. I am committed to advancing the ASA’s aims and working with members and partners around the world to make this happen.”
ASA’s Director General, Fabio Gamba, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, "Hassan's extensive experience and visionary approach are invaluable assets that will bring ASA to new heights. His skills and credentials will play a pivotal role in advancing our mission globally and serve as a strong voice for the sector."
El-Houry succeeds Atilla Korkmazoğlu, President of Ground Handling and Cargo at Çelebi, who served as Chairman of the ASA from 2020-2024. His tenure will be particularly remembered for his adept navigation of the Association through the challenges posed by the global pandemic. Under his guidance, ASA nearly doubled its membership and expanded significaltly the Secretariat. Additionally, he was instrumental in spearheading a Memorandum of Understanding with ACIWorld, achieving formal recognition of ASA by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) as a trusted partner, and launching the now renowned ASA Leadership Forum (ALF).
