The official Media Release from ASA.
Perhaps more significant for what it doesn't say, than for what it does.
sep
No. 4/04
CHAIRMAN LEAVES STRONG LEGACY
The outgoing Chairman of Airservices Australia, John Forsyth, has overseen a period of major change and exceptional growth, the Corporation’s Chief Executive Bernie Smith said tonight.
“John Forsyth has been totally dedicated to the task of advancing the interests of the aviation industry in Australia since he took up the top position in July 1996, “ Mr Smith said.
“He will be a big loss to the organisation because of his unswerving dedication to safety, his business acumen and leadership and his drive and commitment to airspace reform.”
Mr Forsyth has been a tireless advocate of the importance of the primacy of safety to the organisation, Mr Smith said.
“He was instrumental in several major initiatives in the industry including the implementation of the world’s most advanced air traffic control system - the Australian Advanced Air Traffic System (TAAATS), pricing reform and the attainment of the high international reputation enjoyed by the corporation today,” he said.
“Under his stewardship, the corporation reduced its operating costs by over $140 million a year through real price reductions of over 25 percent, making the organisation more commercial and highly competitive against international air navigation service providers.”
“In addition, during his tenure, Airservices customers have harvested fuel savings from enhanced operational traffic flow procedures in excess of $80 million a year. This reduced fuel burn also has eliminated 890,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually”, Mr Smith said.
“The corporation and the aviation industry as a whole is greatly indebted for the reforms he has overseen.”
Mr Smith said Air Marshal Les Fisher AO (ret), who had been deputy chairman to John Forsyth for nearly three years and had joined the board in July 1999, will provide continuity for the organisation until a permanent replacement is appointed.
12 February 2004