Atlanta Airport Taps Ricky Smith as New Airport Head
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens has appointed Ricky Smith as the new general manager of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), marking a significant leadership change at the world’s busiest passenger airport. Smith, who has served as the longtime CEO of Baltimore/Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport (BWI), will officially take charge on April 2, 2025.
Smith’s appointment comes after a comprehensive search initiated following the dismissal of former ATL general manager Balram Bheodari in May 2024. Since then, Jan Lennon, the airport’s deputy general manager of operations, has been serving as interim head from July 1. Lennon will remain on board as executive deputy general manager, ensuring continuity as Smith transitions into his new role.
Currently serving as executive director and CEO of the Maryland Aviation Administration, which operates BWI, Smith has held his position there since 2015. Prior to his leadership at BWI, he was CEO of Cleveland Hopkins International Airport, further underscoring his extensive experience in airport management. Mayor Dickens highlighted Smith’s proven track record during the selection process, stating that his appointment will bring “dynamic leadership” necessary to drive continued growth at ATL. “We believe Ricky’s experience will be pivotal in advancing ATL’s strategic vision and operational excellence,” said Dickens in a statement.
Smith expressed his enthusiasm for the new role, stating, “I am both honored and excited to serve the Atlanta public. ATL is not just an airport—it’s the most impactful economic driver for the city and state of Georgia.” His appointment is seen as a move to further enhance the airport’s performance, particularly as ATL serves as Delta Air Lines’ main global hub, offering service to more than 70 international destinations across over 40 countries and connecting to more than 150 domestic routes.
Under Smith’s leadership at BWI, the airport experienced steady growth in passenger numbers, while also pushing for an expanded international presence. His efforts at BWI led to the launch of new international routes, including services by Icelandair and Play, two Iceland-based carriers, and year-round operations by British Airways to London Heathrow. Additionally, Copa Airlines from Panama City joined the network, demonstrating Smith’s ability to boost international connectivity even at a predominantly domestic-focused airport.
ATL, with its vast network, stands in contrast to BWI’s current profile. While BWI’s market is heavily dominated by Southwest Airlines—with a 70% market share and a limited set of 17 international routes—ATL serves as a major international gateway and economic powerhouse for the region. With Delta’s hub based at ATL, the airport plays a critical role in global connectivity and economic development, attracting millions of passengers annually.
Smith’s transition to ATL signals a fresh chapter for the airport. His extensive background in managing large, complex airport operations is expected to drive further improvements in efficiency, customer service, and international expansion at ATL. As the aviation industry continues to evolve, his leadership will be crucial in maintaining ATL’s status as the premier global hub and ensuring that it remains competitive on a worldwide scale.
With this appointment, Atlanta is poised to harness Ricky Smith’s expertise to elevate the airport’s performance and deliver enhanced value to both travelers and the local economy.
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