So it should come as no surprise that following a worldwide search, the 38-year-old born-and-bred local has been appointed as the airport’s new chief executive.
The trained pilot and former airport operations and infrastructure general manager will take up the role on January 1, and he already has big plans for the facility.
"It’s been a pretty tough few years for aviation, but things are looking up.
"I don’t think Covid is well and truly in the rear-view mirror yet, but things are moving on, people are travelling again, and our airline partners are rebuilding capacity — we’re learning to live with Covid."
"I know many people on both sides of the Tasman miss that direct connection into our great city."
As a result, he hoped to see an increase in passenger numbers over the next year.
He said there would be challenges in 2023, including the threat of a global economic recession, and a geo-political situation with respect to supply chains and fuel, but nothing the industry had not faced before.
Mr De Bono has been the acting chief executive since October 2022, when previous chief executive Richard Roberts left.
He said he was "absolutely energised" after being appointed to the new position.
"As a born and bred local boy, I genuinely feel that Otepoti Dunedin and the wider region flows through my veins.
"I am passionate about promoting everything we have to offer with the rest of New Zealand and the world."
He said he was also excited to be leading the facility during a time of rapid and progressive change, as the industry strived to lower carbon emissions.
"We will remain committed to ensuring sustainability becomes an inherent part of everything we do — respecting our social license to operate and ensuring Dunedin Airport shows leadership in the enduring wellbeing of our region, community, our people and the environment.
"Our airport runway is the most important main street in town and a key economic driver for Dunedin and the lower South Island.
"I am sharply focused on ensuring Dunedin Airport continues to grow and thrive."
Dunedin International Airport Ltd board chairman Chris Hopkins said the search for a world-class candidate to usher in the new era for the airport was truly international.
"The calibre of individuals from around the world, who put themselves forward, was exceptionally high.
"However, Daniel stood out as an experienced aviation professional who has already proven himself in various senior leadership roles across New Zealand."
He said Mr De Bono had a bachelor of aviation management from Massey University and brought professional experience gained with airports throughout the country, including Wellington and the Queenstown Lakes.
"I have no doubt Daniel’s strategic mind and leadership will prove a vital asset as Dunedin Airport continues to build its connections to the city and the lower south."
