Government officials advertised for an understudy to General Manager Jack Gordon for the first time last week.

Canadian Mr. Gordon has a contract running until 2000 and five Bermudian airport executives are already being tipped as possibles to take over in two years' time.

Applicants for the $100,000-a-year understudy's post will be interviewed by the Public Services Commission.

Mr. Gordon told The Royal Gazette : "They are starting the search for somebody to understudy my position.

"Between now and the expiration of my contract, somebody will be brought in to develop the position.

"They will be selected by the PSC and I will have no input in the choice. Any of those currently in the department who are interested will be afforded the opportunity to apply and be interviewed.'' Mr. Gordon said four airport executives had been on training courses in Vancouver and Montreal, at the International Aviation Management and Training Institute.

Another senior airport official is already qualified in international aviation and has remained behind during training breaks to look after business in Bermuda.

Now Terminals Manager Mike Osborn, Air Operations Managers Lester Nelson and Thomas Dunstan, Maintenance and Engineering Manager Marshall Minors and Financial Controller Delia Trott could all be in line for the top job.

Mr. Gordon, who would not name any likely candidates, said: "All our senior staff will continue to get the best training overseas.

"Aviation is a fast-moving industry and even when you know it all, you don't because it changes.'' The job advert quotes a closing date for applications of September 30.

It says qualifications should include a Masters degree or equivalent in business administration and 10 years' experience at senior management level.

The Royal Gazette first revealed in January that a Bermudian was to be groomed for the airport's top job.

Transport Minister Wayne Furbert said then that Government would advertise for an understudy "within months''.

Mr. Gordon took over the reins in 1995 after building up 25 years of industry experience.

GOVERNMENT GVT