Sacramento airport head takes helm of airport association

Cindy Nichol, Sacramento International Airport's director, became chair of Airports Council International?North America, the trade association representing commercial service airports in the U.S. and Canada, on Jan. 1.

Nichol was elected to the position in October and succeeds outgoing chair Kevin Dolliole, director of aviation at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.

"Airports across North America are investing in infrastructure, workforce development, and new technologies to better serve travelers and the communities that rely on them," ACI-NA President and CEO Kevin M. Burke said in a statement. "As chair, Cindy Nichol's leadership and understanding of airport policy will be critical to strengthening the collective voice of airports and advancing key industry priorities."

"The organization plays a vital role in advancing the industry," Nichol said, adding she was honored to be asked to serve as chair during an "important moment in our industry."

"I look forward to working collaboratively with our board, members, professional staff, and industry partners to advance key airport industry priorities in order to strengthen our airports, support our workforce, and deliver safe, innovative, and welcoming experiences for the passengers and customers we serve," she said.

Nicol has been director of Sacramento's department of airports since 2018, overseeing the operation and development of its four airports. She previously held executive leadership positions at the Port of Portland and San Francisco International Airport over her 30 years in the industry.

A longtime and active member of ACI-NA, Nichol served three years as chair of the board's finance committee and as a member of the U.S. Policy Council, providing guidance on the organization's strategic priorities. In her new role, she will help strengthen the collective voice of North American airports and support the industry as it navigates evolving policy, infrastructure, and passenger demand.

Jason Terreri, executive director of the Syracuse Regional Airport Authority, was elected ACI-NA vice chair. In addition to welcoming Nichol, ACI-NA announced the election of several board members and policy council leadership.