Johan Leunen joins Ostend-Bruges as airport starts afresh

From l to r: Steven Verhasselt, John Leunen, Nathan De Valck and Rose Yiqian Qiu

Johan Leunen, a veteran of Brussels Airport and well-known on the air cargo circuit, has joined Ostend-Bruges airport as cargo development director.

Mr Leunen will work alongside cargo sales director Rose Yiqian Qiu and Egis Group director of cargo strategy Steven Verhasselt, to further develop the airport’s cargo services, attract new business opportunities, and drive sustainable growth in line with the region’s strategic ambitions, said the airport.

Mr Leunen has worked in air cargo for some 23 years, starting as a sales manager for Flightcare Belgium before joining forwarder Rhenus. He began his Brussels Airport career as cargo marketing manager, becoming senior business & development manager cargo, before he left the airport, after more than 12 years, in January.

He reports to his former BRU colleague Nathan De Valck, who is CEO of both Ostend-Bruges and Antwerp airports, roles he took on in June after leaving WFS in May, where he was MD for Belgium.

“We strongly believe in the opportunities that the air cargo sector holds for Ostend-Bruges Airport,” said Mr De Valck. “Johan’s expertise, industry knowledge, and extensive network will be a great asset to our team. With his support, we are confident we can strengthen our position as a key cargo gateway and contribute to the economic development of the region.”