Dawit Lemma appointed new AfBAA Chairperson

Dawit Lemma

Lemma is a seasoned aviation executive, entrepreneur, and advocate with over 25 years of experience spanning multiple continents. As the Founder and CEO of Krimson Aviation Holdings Ltd., he has successfully scaled operations into nearly 35 countries, establishing the company as a leader in aviation services across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. His expertise lies in aircraft ground handling, maintenance, aviation business development, and operational excellence, backed by a solid technical foundation as a licensed commercial pilot (FAA, SACAA, EASA/Swiss FOCA) and FAA-certified Airframe & Powerplant Mechanic.

Lemma’s leadership extends beyond corporate success—his extensive board experience in global aviation organisations positions him as a strategic voice in industry governance and advocacy. He serves as a Board Director for Women in Aviation International (WAI), a board member of ISBAH within the International Business Aviation Council (IBAC), and Africa Lead for the International Operators Committee of National Business Aviation Association (NBAA). His commitment to fostering inclusion in aviation has led to groundbreaking initiatives, such as the Krimson Aviation Scholarship, which supports underrepresented students pursuing careers in aerospace.

With a passion for operational efficiency, risk management, customer engagement, and aviation infrastructure development, Lemma has spearheaded numerous projects, from hangar construction to runway expansion, contributing to the industry's growth. His fluency in English and French, coupled with his international experience across Ethiopia, Switzerland, the United States, Zambia, Malawi, and Afghanistan, underscores his ability to navigate multicultural business environments with ease.

Through his strategic vision, technical expertise, and industry leadership, Dawit continues to shape the future of aviation, championing diversity and operational excellence in the global aerospace sector.

Craig Middleton

Middleton has over 30 years of expertise in aviation management, strategic business development, and operational leadership, Craig has consistently driven growth, innovation, and operational excellence across multiple international aviation organisations.

As the Director of Sales and Account Management at General Aviation Services Ltd (G.A.S.), Craig is dedicated to optimising customer experience, managing key accounts, and resolving operational challenges to elevate service standards. His strategic acumen ensures the company continues to expand its market presence and revenue streams within the aviation sector.

Additionally, as the Aviation and Hotel Director for Bequia Air, Middleton spearheaded the launch and operations of a VIP airline, seamlessly integrating luxury air travel with premier hospitality services in the Caribbean. His ability to align regulatory compliance with superior customer experience underscored his commitment to operational excellence.

During his tenure as EMEA Regional Operations Director at Universal Aviation, Middleton led a network of 13 ground support locations, driving efficiency, customer satisfaction, and profitability across the region. His leadership extended to strategy development, budget management, and talent retention, fostering a strong foundation for organisational growth.

Throughout his career, Middleton has held pivotal roles in leading aviation companies, including Oxygen Aviation, Starflight Aviation, Midwest Executive Aviation, and Signature Flight Support. His expertise spans sales strategy, global partnership development, compliance management, and operational optimisation.

Passionate about fostering industry-wide collaboration, Middleton is committed to driving innovation, customer engagement, and business growth in aviation. His leadership philosophy revolves around strategic problem- solving, consultative decision-making, and creating lasting value for clients and stakeholders.