YXS picks seasoned aviation veteran to lead local airport

Geoff Ritchie is the new President and Chief Executive Officer at the Prince George Airport.

He brings more than 30 years of international aviation experience, including senior leadership roles in airline operations, engineering, and airport development.

A Royal Air Force-trained aeronautical engineer, Ritchie began his career investigating military and commercial aircraft incidents with the UK’s Department of Transport before holding executive roles with British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.

His leadership roles have spanned some of the world’s busiest and most complex aviation hubs, including London Heathrow and Amsterdam Schiphol.

Most recently, Ritchie was a member of the senior leadership team at Kelowna International Airport (YLW), where he led the airport’s Commercial department.

His portfolio included capital projects, business and commercial development, air service strategy, and community engagement as well as their post-COVID air service recovery, helping position it as one of Canada’s fastest-growing airports.

“I’m proud to be joining the Prince George Airport Authority and excited to work alongside the incredible team at YXS,” said Ritchie.

“This airport plays a vital role in northern BC’s economic and social connectivity, and I look forward to building on its role as a key hub for air travel and economic growth in the region.”

Ritchie replaces Gord Duke who retired at the end of last year.

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Brendan Pawliw
Brendan Pawliw
Since moving to Prince George in 2015, Brendan has covered local sports including the WHL’s Prince George Cougars, Prince George Spruce Kings, UNBC Timberwolves, Cariboo Cougars AAA, and Northern Capitals U18 female hockey teams. Career highlights include play-by-play during the Spruce Kings' BCHL championship runs in 2018 and 2019, including the Doyle Cup win. He also covered the 2019 National Junior A Championship, the 2017 Telus Cup, the 2022 World Women’s Curling Championship, and the 2022 BC Summer Games. Brendan is the news voice on 94.3 The Goat and Country 97 FM, reporting on crime, real estate, labour, and environmental issues. Outside of work, he officiates box lacrosse and fastball, sits on the Prince George Sports Hall of Fame board, and co-hosts the Hockey North podcast.

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