Franck Goldnadel (born 14 August 1969) is a French aerospace engineer known for his tenure as head of Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport from 1 March 2011 until February 2018. A graduate of the French Civil Aviation University (promotion 1990), he spent many years working in air transport and airport management before being appointed to lead one of Europe’s busiest aviation hubs.

Education and early career

Goldnadel trained as an engineer at France’s national civil aviation school, where graduates typically receive broad instruction in aeronautics, air traffic management and airport operations. After leaving the university he built a career spanning more than a decade in the air transport sector, gaining experience in operational, technical and administrative aspects of airport and airline services.

Role and responsibilities at Paris–Charles de Gaulle

As head of the airport, Goldnadel was responsible for the safe, efficient and commercial operation of the facility. Typical duties of that position include coordinating airfield operations, ensuring regulatory compliance, managing infrastructure and maintenance programmes, overseeing passenger services, working with airlines and ground handlers, and liaising with national authorities and local stakeholders.

  • Operational oversight and crisis management
  • Infrastructure planning and modernization efforts
  • Security, safety and regulatory compliance
  • Commercial relations with carriers and concessionaires

Leading Paris–Charles de Gaulle involves balancing capacity demands, passenger experience and commercial development while adapting to evolving security, environmental and technological requirements.

Context and succession

During Goldnadel’s period in charge, the airport remained a central node for international traffic to and from France and Europe. In February 2018 he was succeeded by Marc Houalla. Goldnadel’s career illustrates a common path for senior airport managers in France: technical training followed by progressive operational responsibilities within the national aviation system.

For further reading on the institutions and roles mentioned, see the profile of a typical aerospace engineer, information about the French Civil Aviation University, and institutional descriptions of Paris-Charles de Gaulle Airport and its leadership changes.