Los Angeles World Airports has tapped industry veteran John Ackerman to be its new CEO. Upon approval of the appointment by the Los Angeles City Council, Ackerman will lead Los Angeles International (LAX) and Van Nuys (VNY) airports. He will replace Justin Erbacci, who stepped down from the CEO role in October to join NEOM Airports in Saudi Arabia.
Ackerman brings decades of experience in the aviation industry. He previously held senior executive roles with Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and Denver International Airport (DEN). He most recently served as executive vice president of global strategy and development for DFW, where he expanded the airport’s global footprint by driving the first-ever cargo strategy, a multi-year program focused on Asia-Latin America trade flows, among other accomplishments.
“John brings proven executive leadership experience at two of the top airports in the world and an entire career’s worth of expertise in the aviation industry,” said Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass. “He is ready to lead the department as it continues to undergo billions in capital improvement programs, work effectively with airport partners and community members, and push the envelope on equity and sustainability.”
“The Board of Airport Commissioners conducted a comprehensive international search to recruit the most qualified leaders for the CEO role,” said Karim Webb, president of the Board of Airport Commissioners. “I look forward to working closely with John to continue ensuring excellent project delivery of our capital improvement programs, enhancing the passenger experience, and advancing workforce and equity goals, while innovating our offerings to meet the moment of an evolving industry.”
