ACI World, the trade association of the world's airports, has announced the appointment of Justin Erbacci as its new director general and CEO.

He will join the organization in September 2024.

In a statement, ACI World said Erbacci brings a wealth of experience to ACI World, having previously served as the chief executive officer of NEOM Airports and Los Angeles World Airports (LAWA).

At LAWA, before assuming the CEO position from 2020 to 2023, he served as chief operating officer, chief innovation and commercial strategy officer, and chief innovation and technology officer.

His career also includes notable roles at Star Alliance, Credit Suisse, United Airlines, Reese McMahon LLC, Cambridge Management Consultants, and Deloitte Touche.

ACI World noted that in his new role, Erbacci will be responsible for representing the organization on the global stage, implementing policies formulated by the General Assembly and World Governing Board, and driving membership growth — working closely with ACI Regions and stakeholders to advance the organization's mission.  

"It is an honour and a privilege to be selected by fellow airport executives to serve and represent them as Director General and CEO of ACI World," Erbacci said.

"I am very excited to get started and look forward to working closely with the ACI World team, the ACI Regions, and our members—both airports and World Business Partners—to address the challenges and opportunities facing the aviation industry, further strengthen the role of airports as drivers of economic growth and development and help transform the travel experience."

Erbacci succeeds Luis Felipe de Oliveira, who served from 2020­­-2024 as director general and CEO of ACI World.

de Oliveira said he is confident in Erbacci's ability to lead ACI World, citing his international experience and knowledge of the entire aviation sector.

"I will personally engage in the transition to ensure Justin's seamless integration in Montreal and assist him in navigating our complex yet dynamic ecosystem that transcends borders, propelling our collective journey towards a brighter future in the skies," de Oliviera added.