Hannah Dunford, ESG Performance Executive
“I joined LLA in 2023, after discovering the opportunity to bring my passion for geography and the environment to my local airport.
Working in the Sustainability team, I enjoy balancing environmental ambitions with airport safety and operations. Every day is different and I enjoy the challenges of working in an operational environment.
The airport is a great place to work, full of great people and opportunities to grow, I have learnt so much in my time here.”
Pravin Patel, Operations Duty Manager
"I joined LLA in September 2004 as a Security Aviation Officer and then moved to the Airside Operations team where I have progressed onto become an Operations Duty Manager. I feel very proud to work at LLA as I work with an amazing, friendly team who are loyal and highly motivated.
The airport is a great place to work because I have gained invaluable skills and experience that have helped me to get where I am today in my career."
Humayra Khanom, Airport Security Officer
"Working as an Aviation Security Officer is a very rewarding job. Knowing that I am helping to create a safe environment for the general public gives me great satisfaction. Literally no two days are the same, and it is very interesting. I can’t believe I have already been here 7 years! I am proud to be a woman in aviation, and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for my career here."
Joanna Bartolabac, Guest Experience Ambassador
“I joined London Luton Airport in 2017 as an Airport Security Officer, and since then have progressed to my current role in Guest Experience. In my time here, I have developed strong communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and guest service skills, especially in handling challenging situations and supporting both guests and colleagues.
My favourite thing about working at LLA is helping guests, especially during difficult situations and seeing their relief and appreciation. It’s a fast-paced, rewarding environment where you can grow, be part of a supportive team, and make a real difference in people’s journeys.”
Jo Snoxell, Operations Controller
Jo Snoxell is a proud powerhouse in LLA’s AOCC, the airport’s operational nerve centre. With 25 years of experience at the airport, Jo has seen it all and, as an Operations Controller, plays a key role in day-to-day aircraft stand planning and passenger gate allocation, working closely with service partners and the Guest Experience team. Describing the key components of her role, Jo whittles it down to three core areas: planning, monitoring and communicating: “It’s live, anything can happen at any time. It’s important to be calm, flexible, approachable and inquisitive, but it’s hugely rewarding and there are often opportunities to enhance your career within the business.”
Dave Hughes, Airport Firefighter & First Aid Coordinator
"LLA, as both an airport and an employer, inspires me. I feel proud to work for a forward-thinking company with a company culture that values its staff and passengers as it's most valuable assets.
I started my career in the airport Fire Service 34 years ago, which says it all really! I now use a lot of my time to train staff in life-saving first aid; an area that I feel most passionate about. Being involved in this challenges me and I feel empowered to be my best and share the life-saving skills."
Jolanta Muco, Health and Safety Advisor
As a trusted Health and Safety Advisor, Jolanta works closely with teams across the airport to ensure a safe environment for passengers and colleagues. “Resilience, adaptability and strong communication skills are essential for the role,” Jolanta explains, stressing the importance of teamwork and collaboration in a live operational environment. To any young girl or woman considering a career in aviation, Jolanta’s advice is clear: “Go for it. Stay open to learning, ask questions, and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. I’ve met several women who have built long and successful careers at the airport, demonstrating there are always opportunities to grow and progress.”
Kit Ke, IT Cyber Security Officer
"There are many reasons why I love where I work: LLA is a fast-paced environment with a constant stream of engaging and motivating work; LLA’ers work collaboratively and there is a great sense of camaraderie among colleagues; there are a variety of job prospects available across the company and lots of opportunities to advance in one’s career; LLA is bustling with people from different parts of the world and I love interacting with people from diverse cultures.
Every day brings new challenges, but we are all working towards the same goal: to be the simplest and friendliest major airport. I believe nothing is impossible for us, and the sky is the limit."
Lindy Harding, Security Duty Manager
"I joined LLA more than 20 years ago (whilst awaiting a place within the Police), but ended up staying here!
Back when I joined, the aviation industry didn't attract many females; fortunately, that has now changed, and I feel proud to be a part of that change.
I am grateful to be part of a strong team whose different qualities continue to overcome daily challenges and promote a safe environment for our guests to travel."
Mark Graves, Head of Technical Services
"Having lived in Luton all my life, the airport seemed a great place to work. I started my career here as an Electrical Technician 25 years ago and I am now Head of Technical Services.
No day is the same; there’s a wealth of challenges and opportunities which make the role interesting. But, the best thing is the people; I work with a fantastic team and interact with a range of LLA'ers all working towards the same goal. Working at LLA has enabled me to have just the perfect work-life balance."
Sam Maher, Motor Transport Manager
With 28 years of experience under her belt, Sam Maher’s impressive career has spanned roles in Cargo, Apron Services and Motor Transport, roles that have enabled her to continuously develop her skills and knowledge of the broader operation. As a key member of the Motor Transport team, responsible for keeping LLA’s fleet of operational plant and vehicles running safely and efficiently, Sam names adaptability and resilience as essential skills in a dynamic operational environment.
“I aim to be an approachable mentor where I can share my experience, support the team and help others to learn and grow,” she explains. Now, having worked as a woman in a traditionally male-dominated field for so long, Sam is delighted to see the department’s female contingent growing in recent years: “It’s encouraging to see more women joining the department, reflecting LLA’s work in progressing diversity. With the organisation’s strong focus on teamwork, communication and development, I’m able to lead in a positive and supportive way.”
