Position Summary 

This is an unclassified at-will position

The Aviation Director works under the direction of the Chief Operations Officer (COO) and serves as the chief executive responsible for managing daily operations and guiding the long-term development of the Aviation Department. This executive role provides strategic leadership in planning, operations, finance, and stakeholder engagement, ensuring the airport system remains competitive, safe, and economically viable.

The Department has an annual budget of approximately $68 million and 293 full-time positions. It operates two municipal airports: the Albuquerque International Sunport, covering approximately 2,200 acres, and Double Eagle II. The Sunport is the largest and most active multi-modal facility in New Mexico, classified as a medium hub airport by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). It is home to six major commercial carriers and eight affiliates and is recognized as a key economic engine for the state. Double Eagle II, located on Albuquerque’s west side, supports about 150 general aviation aircraft and 66,000 annual operations, including training, military, air ambulance, charter, private, and corporate flights.

The Aviation Director ensures compliance with federal and legislative regulations, as well as airport rules, policies, and procedures, with a strong emphasis on safety, security, and customer service. The Director represents the City in local, regional, and national forums and serves as the key liaison with the FAA, TSA, airlines, tenants, military partners, community leaders, and the traveling public.

Key Responsibilities

Lead and oversee safe, secure, and efficient airport operations, including airfield and terminal functions.
Provide strategic vision for the airport system, including development of strategic and master plans aligned with long-term goals.
Direct the department’s operational, financial, and capital improvement programs.
Oversee regulatory compliance with FAA, TSA, and other federal and state requirements.
Manage leases, contracts, and relationships with air carriers, tenants, vendors, and business partners.
Prepare, administer, and monitor operating and capital budgets; recommend and approve expenditures.
Guide ongoing capital projects to ensure delivery on time and within budget.
Drive sustainability initiatives, including noise abatement and environmental programs.
Represent the airport with the media, community, and key stakeholders.
Coordinate closely with local, state, and federal partners to advance airport and community interests.
Oversee emergency preparedness, response, and crisis communications.
Ensure a positive and seamless customer experience across all terminal and passenger-facing operations.
Direct air service development strategies to expand connectivity and support commercial growth.
Demonstrate a continuous effort to improve operations, services, and efficiencies.
Develop, mentor, and inspire airport staff while fostering professionalism, accountability, and high morale.
Stay ahead of industry trends and technological advancements to maintain a competitive edge.
Work cooperatively with City Administration to deliver premier aviation services that benefit Albuquerque and New Mexico.

Leadership Qualities and Style

The ideal candidate is a collaborative and visionary leader who values transparency, accountability, and community engagement. They must inspire a high-performance culture and demonstrate sound judgment in both routine operations and complex, high-stakes situations.

Strong interpersonal skills are essential, along with the ability to build relationships across diverse groups. The Director must communicate clearly and effectively at all levels of the organization and with external partners. A collaborative and inclusive leadership style will inspire and develop high-performing teams while valuing diversity and growth. Ethical leadership is critical to building trust and respect within the airport community and beyond.

Pursuant to City of Albuquerque Ordinance, the City’s Director of Aviation must be certified as an Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) by the American Association of Airport Executives or must have similar accreditation from a successor or similar organization in function.  Possession of a valid New Mexico Driver’s License, or ability to obtain by date of hire.

Possession of a City Operator’s Permit (COP) within six (6) months of hire.