Executive Board

Mr David Forsyth, BE (Aero), Grad Dip, FRAeS. MILT

David has over 35 years experience in the airline industry. He filled a number of key roles for Qantas Airways during his career, being actively involved in the growth of the Qantas from a fleet of 25 aircraft in 1985 to the 200 aircraft of today.

David joined Qantas as an engineering cadet in 1970, and completed an Aeronautical Engineering degree. His career progressed as a professional engineer and then moved into the management areas, where he headed a number of Engineering divisions.

Following the acquisition of Australian Airlines, he was responsible for the Tullamarine Maintenance Base in Melbourne, involving the integration of the domestic and international engineering functions.

In 1997 he became the General Manager Regional Airlines and in 1999 Executive General Manager Aircraft Operations, responsible for all Flight Operations, Engineering, and Maintenance. He retired from Qantas in late 2003 to pursue work as an independent consultant.

David has a Bachelor of Aeronautical Engineering degree (honours) from the University of NSW, a Graduate Diploma in Industrial Engineering (UNSW) and has completed the Stanford University Executive Program in the USA.

He is a director of the Royal Flying Doctor Service of Australia (SE Division), Airservices Australia, and Aviation Australia. He is also a Senior Visiting Fellow at the UNSW, Chairman of the Industry Advisory Panel for the UNSW School of Aviation, Executive Deputy Chairman for Safeskies Conferences, and President of the Royal Aeronautical Society (Australia).

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