Special to The Mississippi Link
Dirk B. Vanderleest is the chief executive officer of the Jackson Municipal Airport Authority with management and oversight re-sponsibilities for both Jackson-Evers International Airport and Hawkins Field Airport.
He was awarded the 2008 Air Carrier Airport Manager of the Year by the Federal Aviation Administration’s Southern Region, which includes Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Mississippi, North Carolina, Puerto Rico, South Carolina, Tennessee and the Virgin Islands.
He was nominated for the honor by the professional staff of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) based in Jackson, Miss., at the Jackson Evers International Airport. This is an annual competitive award given to one airport manager per FAA region.
“We are very pleased to have the aviation professionals of the FAA recognize the efforts of our chief executive officer and the airports he manages and directs.”
This was reported by JMAA Board of Commissioners Chair-man, George E. Irvin, Sr. He further stated “Our Jackson airports are a critical element of the regional and statewide economy. Efficient and effective management and oversight have kept them competitive, safe, secure, and a point of pride for our region.”
Recipients are selected based on their excellence in airport management, exceptional aviation leadership and promotion of the aviation industry. Winners are also recognized for their achievements in organizational efficiencies and improved productivity.
Vanderleest has been with the Airport Authority since 1990. Prior to assuming the position of CEO, he served for five years as airport manager for the Huntsville – Madison County Airport in Huntsville, Ala.
He is a graduate of Auburn University and a member of the American Association of Airport Executives and the current president of the Mississippi Airport Association.
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