Jackson Hole Airport might just be the most unique airport in the U.S. The only commercial service airport within a national park and the first airport in the world to be certified an International Dark Sky Place. The unique experience begins on approach.

James C. Chrisley, C.M., ACE, was appointed director of aviation for Clark County, Nev., in September 2025, bringing more than three decades of leadership experience across commercial, general aviation and military airport operations both nationally and internationally. In his current role, Chrisley oversees one of the most dynamic aviation systems in the U.S., managing five airports: Harry Reid International, Henderson Executive, North Las Vegas, Jean Sport Aviation Center and Overton-Perkins Field.

Over the past five years, AAM has advanced from research and development to planning to implementation and operation, reaching a major inflection point this year with the launch of the AAM and eVTOL Integration Pilot Program.

Southwest begins first ever service to Anchorage; SJC opens sensory-friendly room; DFW opens a new pier; among other news.

In 2024 Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) began an ambitious and somewhat unique plan to generate additional revenue while simultaneously increasing total cargo tonnage coming through the airport. The plan was to get into the ground handling business.

The Port of Seattle named Wendy Reiter as managing director of Seattle-Tacoma International (SEA), effective January 7, 2026. A veteran leader at SEA and longtime partner to key federal aviation agencies, Reiter previously led security, fire and emergency preparedness for SEA. Over the last 35 years she has held key management roles with airports and airlines in Seattle and in the Midwest.

Both aircraft design and the airline market are shifting simultaneously. This means airport leaders must do more than respond to a single point of change; they must rethink how they plan, design and invest in terminals.

Airport stakeholders have advocated for a tower at Oregon’s third busiest public-use airport since 2008. This year, that goal became a reality.

Discover a little free library at Phoenix Sky Harbor and a new Embry-Riddle flight complex at Prescott Regional. Stay updated with the latest aviation news.

Discover a new concourse planned at MIA and a new operational nerve center at SFO. Stay updated with the latest aviation news.

2026 is a pivotal year for Philadelphia, as host to America’s 250th birthday celebration and A-list sporting events, including FIFA World Cup matches, MLB All-Star Week, the PGA Championship and more. Millions of travelers are expected, and with them comes an incredible opportunity to showcase what makes Philadelphia special, generate significant economic gains and, ideally, inspire repeat visits.

As airport leaders and industry stakeholders gather for the 98th Annual AAAE Conference & Exposition, one of the clearest glimpses into the future of our profession is the growing momentum of the AAAE Student Network, also known as the Student Chapter Program.