Published on
January 12, 2026
By: Paramita Sarkar
On Sunday, January 11, 2026, Airports Council International (ACI) World officially announced the appointment of Jost Lammers, CEO of Munich Airport, as Chair of the ACI World Governing Board (WGB) for the 2026-2027 term. Lammers’ extensive experience in the aviation sector, especially in Europe and internationally, will guide the organization’s strategic direction, influencing global airport policy, sustainability, and operational priorities during his tenure.
Lammers succeeds Candace McGraw, the retired CEO of Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), who served as ACI World’s first female Chair. McGraw led the organization through a period of strong global advocacy and significant strategic advancements. With Lammers’ appointment, ACI World is poised for continued growth, innovation, and a renewed commitment to sustainability.
The What: Jost Lammers Appointed as ACI World Chair
The announcement of Lammers’ new role comes at a time when the aviation industry is recovering and reshaping itself after the COVID-19 pandemic. As Chair of the ACI World Governing Board, Lammers will oversee a diverse group of 28 airport CEOs nominated by ACI’s five regional bodies. These leaders provide strategic guidance on airport policy, operational priorities, innovation, and sustainability initiatives, all of which will play a crucial role in defining the future of the aviation sector.
Lammers’ appointment is a reflection of his decades of experience and proven leadership in the global aviation industry. His role as Chair will be pivotal in leading ACI World through a critical period of industry transformation, focusing on improving resilience, driving sustainable practices, and fostering innovation within airports worldwide.
The Where: A Global Reach with European Expertise
As CEO of Munich Airport since 2020, Lammers brings a wealth of experience to his new position as ACI World Chair. Munich Airport is one of Europe’s leading international hubs, renowned for its high service standards, innovation, and sustainable development practices. Lammers has also previously led Budapest Liszt Ferenc Airport, overseeing significant modernization and growth that further shaped his expertise in managing large-scale international airports.
Additionally, Lammers served as President of ACI EUROPE from 2019 to 2023. During his tenure, he was at the forefront of addressing the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, strengthening collaboration among airports across Europe, and advocating for a swift recovery for the European aviation sector. His leadership in the European aviation landscape has given him a unique global perspective, making him a strong candidate to shape ACI World’s strategic vision moving forward.
The Why: Strategic Vision for Global Aviation
ACI World plays a critical role in representing airports globally, focusing on policy advocacy, operational priorities, and sustainability initiatives. Lammers’ leadership will be essential in steering ACI World toward its next phase, particularly as the airport industry faces mounting pressures to balance growth with sustainability. Lammers has long been an advocate for environmentally responsible airport development and operational resilience, both of which will remain central to his priorities during his term.
The aviation industry is at a crossroads, with many airports increasingly relying on technological innovations to streamline operations, enhance passenger experience, and ensure sustainability. Lammers’ experience in driving innovation at Munich Airport, particularly in the areas of digital transformation and green initiatives, will position him well to lead ACI World in this critical period.
The When: Timeline for Leadership and Strategy Development
Lammers’ term as Chair of ACI World began on January 11, 2026, and will run through to the end of 2027. Over this period, he will lead ACI World’s efforts in strengthening its role as a global leader in airport governance, policy development, and advocacy. During his tenure, Lammers will work closely with other industry leaders to promote sustainable growth and operational resilience, especially in light of recent disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing global challenges.
The How: Strengthening ACI World’s Global Influence
As Chair, Lammers will oversee the strategic direction of ACI World and work closely with the Governing Board to set the organization’s priorities for the next two years. This includes advocating for policies that enhance airport efficiency, safety, and sustainability while also driving innovation across the sector. Lammers’ appointment comes at a time when airports worldwide are striving to recover from the pandemic, adapt to changing passenger expectations, and implement new technologies that will shape the future of air travel.
Lammers’ extensive background in airport management, policy advocacy, and international collaboration equips him with the skills needed to lead ACI World through the complexities of the next phase of industry transformation. His experience also includes serving as President of the German Aviation Association (BDL), representing all sectors of the German air transport industry, including airlines, airports, air traffic control, and ground handling service providers. This broad experience will allow him to work effectively with diverse stakeholders, ensuring that ACI World remains a leading voice in the global aviation community.
The Leadership Transition: From Candace McGraw to Jost Lammers
Lammers succeeds Candace McGraw, whose leadership as ACI World’s first woman Chair left a significant mark on the organization. Under McGraw’s guidance, ACI World strengthened its global advocacy efforts and made strides in promoting sustainability and workforce transformation within the aviation sector. Her tenure laid the foundation for future advancements, and Lammers is expected to build on this legacy.
Lammers has expressed his commitment to continuing ACI World’s progress, focusing on creating a unified approach to global challenges while ensuring that airports remain vital economic engines for local and global communities. His vision for ACI World includes strengthening its leadership role on the global stage, uniting airports and industry partners to foster a sustainable and resilient aviation ecosystem.
Conclusion: A New Era for ACI World
Jost Lammers’ appointment as Chair of the ACI World Governing Board marks a pivotal moment for the global aviation industry. With more than 25 years of experience in airport leadership, innovation, and policy advocacy, Lammers is well-equipped to guide ACI World through a period of continued transformation and recovery. His leadership will play a critical role in advancing ACI World’s strategic priorities, ensuring that airports evolve as sustainable, innovative, and people-focused hubs of mobility and economic growth.
As the aviation industry faces new challenges and opportunities in the years ahead, Lammers’ vision and expertise will be essential in shaping the future of global aviation policy and operations. With a focus on collaboration, sustainability, and innovation, Lammers is poised to make a lasting impact on ACI World’s global mission.
