Jean-Michel Vernhes facts for kids

Jean-Michel Vernhes (born in 1950 in Mazamet, France) is a French public servant. He is well-known for leading important airports in France. He is currently the President of French Airports (which is called Union des aéroports français in French). He also leads the Toulouse-Blagnac Airport.

His Career Path

Jean-Michel Vernhes studied at special schools in France. He went to Lycée Pierre-de-Fermat in Toulouse. Later, he graduated from the École nationale de l'aviation civile in 1971. This school is a top French university for civil aviation.

He began his career in 1975. He worked at the air traffic control center in Bordeaux. This center helps guide planes safely. In 1980, he moved to Paris. There, he made sure that radio navigation equipment was working correctly. This equipment helps planes find their way.

In 1986, he became the President of the air navigation center in Nouvelle-Calédonie. This role involved managing air traffic in that region. He returned to Paris in 1989. Until 1993, he worked in the department that checks and approves aircraft.

In 1993, he took on a new role. He became responsible for human resources for the French air navigation service. This means he managed the people working there. Then, in 1999, he was chosen to be the President of Toulouse-Blagnac Airport.

On May 18, 2011, he took on another big role. He also became the President of the French Airports group. This group is called Union des aéroports français.

Special Recognition

• He was made an Officier of the Légion d'honneur. This is a very high award in France. It recognizes great service to the country.