Mark Gale, CEO of Philadelphia International (PHL) will be retiring in January after almost 28 years with the airport.
“Mark has been an outstanding leader of the airport,” said Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter when he announced Gale’s retirement Nov. 30. “As the city has grown into a world-class destination, Mark has kept PHL on pace to address the needs of today’s air travelers. He has been focused on expanding convenient, efficient and affordable air service while directing operations of this facility so important to the economic health of the city and region.”
Gale was appointed CEO in 2009. He has been responsible for overseeing the planning, development and administration of all of the Division of Aviation’s activities, including PHL and Northeast Philadelphia (PNE).
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my years at the airport, especially the last seven when the leadership team has worked together to improve air service and to enhance passengers’ travel experience,” says Gale. “I thank Mayor Nutter for the opportunity he gave me to lead this great organization, and I thank all our employees dedicated to serving the airport’s customers. Now, I’m looking forward to the next phase of my life, both personally and professionally.”
During his time as CEO, Gale helped advance a multi-billion-dollar modernization and expansion program, five new airline carriers started service, and business and leisure destination options were added, as were a variety of new amenities and retail and concession options.
“American Airlines and our predecessor airlines, especially US Airways, have enjoyed a long and productive relationship with Mark Gale,” says Michael Minerva, vice president of government and airport affairs for American. “He has devoted his career to improving PHL. He leaves the city and the region a larger and better airport than the one he found when he started in 1985. Perhaps more importantly, Mark’s successor will inherit an airport poised for greater improvement and with a settled airline lease. On a personal note, those of us who have worked closely with Mark over the years wish him all the best as he moves into the next chapter of his life.”
Gale started at PHL as an intern in 1985. Once he graduated from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, he returned to the airport and held a number of positions, including operations manager and deputy director of aviation for operations and facilities.
Gale is a member of the American Association of Airport Executives and serves on its board of directors. He also is on the board of directors for Airports Council International-North America, the Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the U.S. Travel Association.
