Mayor Andre Dickens has appointed Ricky Smith as the new General Manager of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport, effective April 2. Smith, who has over 30 years of aviation management experience, previously led the Maryland Aviation Administration (MAA), overseeing Baltimore Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport, Martin State Airport, and other aviation affairs in Maryland. Interim General Manager Jan Lennon will transition to the role of Executive Deputy General Manager, according to the City of Atlanta release.
In his new role, Smith will focus on sustaining the success of the world’s busiest airport. Mayor Dickens stated in teh same release, "Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport needs dynamic leadership to drive the continued growth we've seen over the past years and Mr. Smith's extensive experience will help us reach more milestones in the years to come." Smith expressed gratitude for the opportunity, saying, "I am both honored and excited to serve the Atlanta public as the new Airport General Manager for Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport – the busiest and most efficient in the world. Mayor Andre Dickens’ confidence in me to lead the City’s and State’s most impactful economic driver is met with deep appreciation. I am looking forward to working with the very talented and dedicated professionals at the airport and the entire City of Atlanta."
During his time at MAA, Smith achieved significant success. Under his leadership, BWI Marshall saw five consecutive years of record-breaking passenger numbers and regained its position as the most used airport in its region. It also earned the Best Airport in North America for Customer Service award from Airport Council International. Smith's efforts led to numerous accolades and the creation of programs like the LaunchPad, which supports minority-owned micro-businesses, and the BWI Marshall Youth Initiative, which provides opportunities for youth in aviation.
Lennon, who served as Deputy of Operations and Interim General Manager, will now work closely with Smith in her new role as Executive Deputy General Manager. She brings over 25 years of experience in airport security management. Lennon's promotion reflects her leadership during the executive search and her ongoing contributions to the airport’s operations, finance, strategic planning, and infrastructure.
