Air cargo industry mourns the passing of Conor Brannigan

The global air cargo community is mourning the loss of Conor Brannigan, Vice President of Strategy at Atlas Air, who passed away on Saturday (September 13, 2025) after a valiant battle with cancer.

He was widely respected as one of the most forward-looking and accomplished executives in aviation, with a career that spanned nearly two decades across some of the industry’s leading airlines and cargo operators.

Brannigan, based in London, joined Atlas Air in August 2024, shortly after leading Magma Aviation as Chief Executive Officer. During his three years at the helm, he steered Magma Aviation through a period of growth and transformation while the industry navigated the volatile post-pandemic landscape. Prior to that, he served with Cargolux Airlines as Director of Strategic Alliances and Market Development, where he played an important role in forging partnerships and strengthening alliances.

His earlier career was shaped at Etihad Airways in Abu Dhabi, where he held senior positions within cargo sales, operations, and partnerships. Brannigan began his professional journey in aviation at Aer Lingus, spending over seven years in cargo sales and analytical roles.

The news of his passing has prompted an outpouring of tributes from across the business. Martin Drew, Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer at Atlas Air and long-time colleague, remarked that Brannigan was a rare professional who combined deep industry knowledge with humility and humour. “His insight and professionalism were second to none, but it was the way he carried himself, with genuine warmth and humility, that truly set him apart,” Drew noted in a LinkedIn post.

Adding to the tributes, Neil Dursley, Chief Operating Officer for Multi-Modal and Air Charter Broking at Global Critical Logistics, reflected on Brannigan’s remarkable career and character. “A very sad day, as a friend and former colleague of mine who did a wonderful job as CEO of Magma Aviation has passed away at a very early age. His career in aviation was excellent at Aer Lingus, Etihad Cargo, Cargolux Airlines, Magma Aviation and finally Atlas Air. The last time I saw him was at the Six Nations Rugby at Twickenham, where we had a wonderful time together. I last spoke to Conor in July; he told me he was doing better and enjoying his role at Atlas Air. He will be missed in the industry, and may he rest in peace,” Dursley shared on LinkedIn.

Those who knew Brannigan speak of a sharp mind, quick wit, and a natural ability to bring people together. He was admired for his professional achievements but even more loved for his kindness, good humour, and the warmth he extended to colleagues and friends. His passion for aviation and his grounded, people-first approach made him stand out in a competitive industry.

Ryan Keyrouse, CEO of Rotate, offered a deeply personal tribute on LinkedIn, recalling Brannigan’s openness and determination despite his illness. “Conor was always open to share ideas on a whiteboard and the first to join for a beer. I was surprised to see him at WCS in Dubai, where, despite his diagnosis, he remained determined to carry on. That very morning, he had run 10k in the Dubai heat. I left our last discussion optimistic and motivated, and the next morning, I went for a run,” Keyrouse shared.

Beyond his professional life, Brannigan was a devoted husband and father. He leaves behind his wife and two young children, Liam and Fiadh.

Conor Brannigan’s legacy is not only one of professional accomplishment but also one of humanity, leadership, and friendship. His contributions helped shape the organisations he served, and his memory will endure in the industry he loved so deeply.