AirNav Ireland Appoints Gerald Caffrey as new Chief Executive

9 June 2025

AirNav Ireland is pleased to announce the appointment of Gerald Caffrey as its new Chief Executive.

Gerald brings a wealth of experience and deep institutional knowledge to the role, having dedicated much of his professional career to AirNav Ireland and previously the Irish Aviation Authority. Since joining the organisation as an engineer, Gerald has served in a range of senior roles including most recently as Director of Technical Services, General Manager Technical Services and Head of Corporate Affairs. His experience provides him with a comprehensive understanding of AirNav Ireland’s operations and strategic direction. 

Commenting on the appointment, Bryan Bourke Chair of AirNav Ireland’s Board stated: 
"Gerald’s leadership, vision and dedication have been evident throughout his time at AirNav Ireland. He has consistently demonstrated a deep commitment to safety, innovation, and the development of our people and systems. The Board looks forward to working with Gerald in his new role as Chief Executive and we are confident that he will lead the organisation with purpose as we continue to modernise and grow." 

The Chair also extended his thanks to the outgoing Chief Executive, Dr. Peter Kearney, stating: “I would also like to recognise the enormous contribution of Dr. Peter Kearney, who has dedicated his career to aviation in Ireland. Having risen through the ranks of the Irish Aviation Authority and later AirNav Ireland, Peter has brought unwavering commitment, expertise, and leadership to the role. As he concludes his term as Chief Executive, we thank him for his many years of service and the lasting impact he has made on the organisation.”

AirNav Ireland is a commercial semi-state body under the aegis of the Department of Transport. Minister for Transport Darragh O’Brien welcomed Mr Caffrey’s appointment, saying:  “I warmly congratulate Gerald Caffrey on his appointment as Chief Executive of AirNav Ireland. AirNav plays a vital role for the State in providing safe, efficient and sustainable air navigation and air traffic management services in Irish-controlled airspace, helping to connect Ireland to the world. Mr. Caffrey brings a wealth of skills and experience to this important role. His appointment comes at an important time for AirNav Ireland, having been established as a new semi-State body as recently as May 2023. I would like to extend my best wishes to him as he takes up his new role.”

The Minister added: “I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Dr. Peter Kearney for his dedication and commitment to both the Irish Aviation Authority and subsequently to AirNav Ireland during his stewardship of both companies. I wish him every success in the future.”

Gerald holds a Master of Business Administration, a Master of Science in Electronic Systems, and a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Dublin City University. He also holds a Diploma in Life and Business Coaching from the Irish Lifecoach Institute and a Diploma in Company Direction from the Institute of Directors. 

Speaking about his appointment, Gerald said:  "It is an honour and a privilege to lead AirNav Ireland at such a dynamic time for the aviation sector. I look forward to working with our talented team to continue delivering a safe, sustainable and innovative service that supports Irish aviation and connects our country to the world." 

AirNav Ireland is the air navigation service provider for Irish-controlled airspace, delivering safe, efficient and cost-effective air traffic management to thousands of flights daily.