Launceston Airport is mourning the loss of former CEO Chris Woodruff, who passed away recently.
Woodruff had served as CEO of Melbourne and Launceston Airports from August 2007 to June 2015, and was “instrumental” in leading numerous infrastructure improvements and developments across the airport precinct during his tenure.
One of his major achievements was the redevelopment of the terminal building in 2008, which was the largest infrastructure investment in Launceston since the original construction of the building in 1965.
Under Woodruff’s leadership, the airport also redeveloped the freight facilities and southern apron in 2012, increasing the load capacity of freight aircraft operations to more than 80,000kg.
In his final year as CEO, Woodruff oversaw the approval of a runway overlay project which involved replacing the asphalt wear layer of the runway surface.
This major undertaking improved the operational availability and safety of the airfield.
The impact that Chris had on the airport, the region and Tasmania as a whole was evident in the recognition that Launceston Airport received in 2015 when it was awarded the AAA National Industry Award for Major Airport of the Year.
“Launceston Airport joins with everyone in the aviation and tourism communities who knew this talented and deeply respected man, in expressing our sorrow on his passing and sending our condolences to his family,” a spokesperson said.
“Vale Chris Woodruff.”
