Elaine Roberts, president and CEO of the Columbus Regional Airport Authority, announced she will retire by the end of 2017.
Roberts is responsible for the operation of passenger-focused John Glenn Columbus International (CMH), cargo-focused Rickenbacker International (LCK) and general aviation airport Bolton Field (TZR).
“Serving the Columbus community and the dedicated airport team for nearly 17 years has been a tremendous privilege,” said Roberts. “Together we have collaborated and innovated to find even more new and exciting ways to connect Ohio with the world.”
Roberts became the first president and CEO of the Columbus Regional Airport Authority when it was created Jan. 1, 2003. Prior to that she served as executive director of the Columbus Airport Authority, CRAA’s predecessor, beginning in December of 2000. In total Roberts has nearly 35 years of airport management experience.
Under Roberts’ leadership, the authority has invested more than $1 billion in airport infrastructure development and improvements, ranging from the modernization of CMH to building a new control tower at LCK. Along with many other comprehensive initiatives, she oversaw the merging of two airport authorities, resulting in greater efficiencies and a strategic approach to air service development for the region.
“When you’re surrounded and supported by 400 passionate team members who literally work around the clock, there’s no limit to what can be accomplished for the benefit of the Columbus community,” said Roberts. “While I look forward to retirement in South Carolina with my wife, Dale, I’ll miss working with the most talented and passionate airport team in the nation.”
Board Chair Susan Tomaski said Roberts is leaving the organization in “a robust financial position with a beautiful passenger facility bearing a compelling new name, a burgeoning intermodal transportation hub and a proud record of community service.”
“Thanks to Elaine’s skilled stewardship, there’s a strong expectation of sustained growth and increasing contributions to the economic well-being of the Columbus Region,” Tomaski added.
