James E. Bennett, A.A.E., Director of Aviation Services for the City of Phoenix, operator of Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport, will receive the American Association of Airport Executives’ (AAAE) Distinguished Service Award, which is presented to airport executives in honor of an exemplary career and contributions to the airport industry.
“Jim is an invaluable colleague who has tirelessly served the nation’s aviation community in many important roles, including widely-respected airport director and active AAAE member,” said AAAE Chair Scott Brockman, A.A.E., President and CEO of Memphis International Airport. “In addition to more than three decades of dedicated service to the aviation industry, Jim has been so passionate about airports that he has undertaken many volunteer positions that have resulted in significant improvements throughout our industry.”
The Distinguished Service Award is one of AAAE’s highest levels of recognition. Men and women receive the award as a mark of accomplishments in their professional and personal lives. Respected leaders of their own communities, these men and women also contribute to other aviation organizations, serve AAAE and its chapters, and participate in civic and community affairs. Distinguished Service Award winners exemplify the best in airport management by continually bringing credit to the profession and the aviation community. All DSA winners are Accredited Airport Executives (A.A.E.) and exemplify the standards accreditation seeks to inspire. Bennett will receive the award later today at a PHX Aero Club luncheon.
Bennett has been active in many aspects of AAAE over the years, including serving as AAAE Chair for 2010-2011, as Chair of the Airport Legislative Alliance, and on the Executive Committee. He is currently a member of the Policy Review Committee and the Board of Directors for the International Association of Airport Executives, an affiliate organization of AAAE. Additionally, Bennett has served on the Board of Directors for the Southeast and Southwest Chapters of AAAE and on the Finance and Administration Committee.
Bennett has held a number of positions during his distinguished career, including as President and CEO of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, CEO of the Abu Dhabi Airports Company, Assistant Aviation Director at Phoenix Sky Harbor, and President of his own consulting firm. He is also a past President of the Arizona Airports Association.
