Photo: Magma Aviation. 6/08/2024

Peter Kerins. Photo: Magma Aviation

UK freighter firm Magma Aviation has appointed Peter Kerins as chief executive to steer its growth strategy.

Kerins brings over 30 years of aviation and logistics experience to his new role, having began his career in 1991 in freight forwarding sales.

He has since worked at a variety of organisations including Virgin Atlantic, DHL Aviation UK and Middle East, Heavyweight Air Express Group and Etihad Airways.

With experience working in the UK, Ireland, Bahrain, the UAE and the US, Kerins will be focusing on optimising Magma Aviation’s increasingly global presence, now in Gatwick, Dublin and Dubai.

Kerins will work closely with the wider Magma Aviation team, including finance & administrations director, Emma Brooks; head of commercial, James Gilliard; head of operations, James le Poer Trench; and head of network planning & alliances, Paul Hoatson.

Eric Erbacher, chief executive at Magma Aviation’s parent company, Chapman Freeborn, commented: “Magma Aviation has strong ambitions for the coming months and years, and I am confident that Peter is the right person to take the business to even loftier heights.

"With over three decades of experience and a proven track record in our competitive and dynamic industry, I am delighted to welcome him to Magma Aviation and thoroughly look forward to seeing what we will achieve together.”

Kerins added: “Looking at the exceptional development of Magma Aviation both prior to, and post covid years, the company's magnificent global team is in a great position to continue growth in the future. Being part of this journey will be an honour and I look forward to working with both the Magma Aviation team and key partners to continue this expansion globally.”

Magma Aviation recently announced narrowbody additions to its fleet and a new office location in Dubai.