Giorgio Buffa Appointed CEO of Ancona International Airport, Italy

Published on October 14, 2025

Ancona International Airport (AIA), a portfolio company of Njord Partners, has announced the appointment of Giorgio Buffa as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective from 13 October 2025. This marks a significant step in the airport’s journey as it continues to grow and modernize under new leadership.

Giorgio Buffa, who joins Ancona International Airport from Hamad International Airport in Doha, brings over two decades of experience in the aviation sector, having worked in various senior operational roles across both airports and airlines. His appointment comes at a time when AIA is poised to expand its operations and improve its infrastructure, with ambitious projects and significant industry partnerships on the horizon.

A Proven Leader in Aviation

Buffa’s career has been deeply rooted in aviation, and he is recognized for his extensive experience in managing airport operations and driving operational excellence. During his tenure as Senior Operations Manager at Hamad International Airport, he played a pivotal role in overseeing critical operations, especially during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic and global events like the FIFA World Cup. His leadership was integral to Hamad International Airport receiving the prestigious title of the “World’s Best Airport” by Skytrax for multiple consecutive years, setting new standards for excellence within the airport industry.

Buffa’s professional journey also includes previous leadership roles in airline operations, where he was involved in managing airport operations at various levels, including his tenure as Head of Airport Operations at Trapani Airport. His aviation career started with roles as a pilot with Alitalia and Air One, which has given him a deep understanding of the technical and operational aspects of air travel, both in the air and on the ground.

Strategic Vision for Ancona International Airport

Buffa succeeds Alex D’Orsogna, who recently transitioned to the role of General Director of ENAC (Italian Civil Aviation Authority), following an appointment made by the Prime Minister. D’Orsogna’s leadership was instrumental in achieving remarkable growth at Ancona International Airport, both in passenger and freight operations. Under his tenure, the airport witnessed key infrastructure developments, positioning AIA as a critical player in Italy’s logistics and transport network. D’Orsogna was particularly successful in leading projects that aimed to expand the airport’s capacity and intermodal transportation infrastructure.

Buffa’s appointment arrives at a pivotal moment in the airport’s strategic transformation. Ancona International Airport is currently undergoing significant development with the establishment of a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, alongside two flagship projects: a Spaceport dedicated to suborbital space flights and a vertiport designed to accommodate Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) aircraft. These projects are part of AIA’s bold vision to enhance its position as a forward-looking airport, offering not only traditional air travel but also innovative technologies that could redefine the future of aviation.

Strategic Expansion and Future Growth

AIA’s partnership with Amazon is set to bolster the airport’s growth even further. Amazon is set to inaugurate its new logistics hub, which will be the largest in Italy and the second largest in Europe. Located just 6 kilometers from Ancona International Airport, this hub is expected to significantly boost the region’s cargo volume and create increased economic activity in the area. As the airport is positioned to benefit from this growth, it will continue to develop its services to support both the passenger and cargo transport sectors.

The continued expansion of AIA will play a crucial role in shaping the economic future of the region, as it is poised to handle not only increased air traffic but also a growing demand for airfreight services. The development of the MRO facility will also enhance AIA’s capability to serve as a key maintenance hub for the aviation industry, further cementing its role as a strategic asset for Italy’s transportation and logistics sectors.

Challenges and Opportunities Ahead

The airport’s leadership under Buffa will be critical in overseeing these transformative projects, ensuring that they are executed successfully and align with the global standards of sustainability and operational efficiency. Buffa’s leadership will be instrumental in navigating the evolving challenges of the aviation industry, such as sustainability goals, regulatory changes, and increased demand for innovative travel solutions. His expertise in sustainable development and operational efficiency will be essential as AIA continues to build upon the groundwork laid by his predecessor.

As the global aviation industry continues to recover from the impacts of COVID-19, Buffa’s appointment signals Ancona International Airport’s commitment to meeting the demands of both travelers and logistics operators. The integration of spaceport and vertiport capabilities further indicates that AIA is thinking ahead, embracing new aviation technologies to ensure that it remains at the forefront of the industry.

Conclusion: The Future of Ancona International Airport

With Giorgio Buffa at the helm, Ancona International Airport is positioned for continued growth and innovation. Buffa’s appointment as CEO comes at an exciting time for AIA, as the airport seeks to expand its services and infrastructure to meet the evolving needs of both passenger and cargo transportation. With ambitious projects like the MRO facility, spaceport, and vertiport on the horizon, Ancona International Airport is making significant strides toward becoming a global leader in aviation and logistics.

Buffa’s vision for the airport, combined with his wealth of experience and proven leadership in the aviation industry, will undoubtedly guide AIA to new heights in the years to come. As the airport continues to capitalize on its strategic location and build on its expanding infrastructure, it is set to play a crucial role in shaping Italy’s aviation and logistics landscape.