Airport Experience® News - Leadership Issue 2025

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16 DOY: PHX’s Growth Driver Chad Makovsky, aviation director for the City of Phoenix and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, is leading an airport that has seen strong passenger gains in recent years. Successfully navigating that demand growth – and the need for more robust commercial offerings that comes with it – has propelled Makovsky to prominence in the industry. 22 Makovsky’s Collaborative Approach An open-door policy, active engagement on issues and a vision for growth all characterize Makovsky’s leadership, colleagues say. 24 DOY: Reenvisioning PIT’s Future Christina Cassotis, CEO of the Allegheny County Airport Authority, which operates Pittsburgh International Airport, has led the transformation of PIT from a hub to a thriving origin-and-destination airport. Her full impact on PIT became apparent earlier this year with the opening of a new, right sized and state-of-the-art terminal. 30 Spirit of Innovation A drive to reinvent Pittsburgh International Airport for now and future travelers, a focus on innovation and adept handling of city politics have led Christina Cassotis to prominence in the North American airport industry. 36 DOY: RICs Servant Leader Perry Miller, president and CEO of the Capital Regional Airport Commission, which operates Richmond International Airport, has focused his career on improving airports. He’s successfully navigated RIC to new growth while also taking prominent roles in national airport trade organizations. 42 Miller’s Influence From encouraging higher education goals among his colleagues and team to leading with “immense integrity,” Perry Miller’s mark on the airport industry is indelible.

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6 Letter From The Editor 10 Mel’s Outlook After six years of leading the AX Team, Airport Experience News publisher Melissa K. Montes shares her experiences and outlook for the future.

46 Mentoring Moments PANYNJ’s Institute of Concessions is tapping into local F&B and retail talent, training those individuals to become the next small businesses to thrive at New York area airports. 50 Operator On Ramps It’s not just PANYNJ leading the mentorship drive. Airports throughout North America are upping their commitments to preparing want-to-be concessionaires for business success.

55 Advertising Index 56 Before You Take Off

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport’s artist-in-residence program gives a spotlight to some of Louisiana’s most talented musicians.

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AX NEWS DECEMBER 2025 / JANUARY 2026