The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) has settled on a new captain to steer its operations, tapping Lance Lyttle, the current managing director of aviation for Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (Sea-Tac), as its future CEO. As reported by WESH, Lyttle's appointment came about during a GOAA board meeting yesterday, and the transition is expected to occur as soon as next month, pending contract negotiations.

Lyttle will supervise the bustling Orlando International Airport alongside the smaller Orlando Executive Airport. Having overseen a sweeping $5 billion renovation at Sea-Tac, including vital safety upgrades and tech advances like an automated parking guidance system, Lyttle is no stranger to large-scale airport projects—an attribute likely weighed heavily by the GOAA. However, ClickOrlando outlines Lyttle's credentials, including tackling a ransomware crisis last August that tested the airport's cybersecurity infrastructure.

Sea-Tac accomplished an impressive feat during his tenure, consecutively earning the 4-Star Airport level from the Skytrax World Airport Awards in 2022 and 2023. He was named the best airport in the United States for three years. "Lance’s commitment to excellence and his ambitious vision changed the airport experience at SEA," stated Port of Seattle Executive Director Stephen Metruck in a statement reported by Port of Seattle. Lyttle also presided over an increase in small and local business participation in the SEA Airport Dining and Retail program by 22%, with revenues skyrocketing to $125M in 2024.

While Lyttle prepares to embark on his new role in Orlando, Sea-Tac has designated Arif Ghouse, the Aviation Division Chief Operating Officer, to serve as the Interim Managing Director amid the search for Lyttle's successor. His exit will mark the end of an era at Sea-Tac, where he was known for his leadership and hands-on approach, famously patrolling the terminal to pick up trash as a lesson in stewardship for the airport staff.