Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW) is an award-winning, medium-hub commercial service airport that served more than a record-breaking 11.1 million passengers in 2025 and is one of the top 50 airports in the United States for passenger traffic. Fifteen airlines serve RSW with nonstop service to more than 70 markets, including Canada and Germany. The economic impact of the airport is $8.3 billion annually to the Southwest Florida region and more than 60,000 jobs. Page Field (FMY), an FAA-designated reliever airport, provides services to general and business aviation and accommodated more than 160,000 aircraft operations in 2025. Base Operations at Page Field is an award-winning, fixed-based operator and has been recognized for its customer service and facilities.

Terminal Expansion projects are currently underway at RSW to improve the airport travel experience by consolidating the security checkpoints, adding concession space and providing passengers more amenities and options. In addition, a new Concourse E is being constructed with 14 gates, as well as other terminal, landside and airside improvements.

General Statement of Job

The Lee County Port Authority (LCPA) is seeking an experienced leader to serve as the Director of Air Service Development (ASD). This leadership position is responsible for retaining and expanding domestic and international passenger and cargo routes at Southwest Florida International Airport (RSW).

The anticipated annual salary for the ideal candidate is between $ 112,414 and $140,000

Duties and Responsibilities

• Conduct comprehensive research and performance analysis on passenger traffic and market trends to identify domestic and international service opportunities
• Develop and present high-level business cases to airline corporate officials and decision makers to retain and expand passenger and air cargo services at RSW
• Formulate and execute a targeted Air Service Incentive Program and have the ability to formulate innovative marketing strategies to support new service
• Take a leading role in expanding international air service programs by tracking regulatory and bilateral route authority developments
• Analyze regional, state and global economic data to forecast future cargo needs and stimulate continuous cargo growth within the air trade area
• Take a leadership role to develop and maintain high-level strategic relationships with airlines, aviation organizations, local businesses and stakeholders to enhance airport usage
• Develop and maintain professional contacts and relationships with key representatives in the local and state tourism and travel industry
• Partner with internal marketing and communications team to design, monitor and evaluate data-driven promotional, digital and advertising campaigns to support new and existing routes
• Prepare, justify and monitor the annual department budget, ensuring strict control over expenditures, as well as incentive funding

Minimum Qualifications

•  Graduation from an accredited four-year college or university with a bachelor’s degree in aviation management, business administration, marketing, economics or a closely related field
• Minimum of six years of aviation industry work experience in the areas of air service development, airline route planning or travel/aviation industry marketing; including at least three years in an administrative, supervisory or leadership role
• An equivalent combination of education and experience may be considered
• Must successfully complete a TSA fingerprint-based Criminal History Records Check (CHRC), Security Threat Assessment (STA) and a U.S. Customs Airport Security Program Check to obtain and maintain all necessary airport security badges and credentials (SIDA, Customs Seal)
• Current, valid international passport
• Ability to travel domestically and internationally to meet with airline partners and attend industry conferences
• A valid Florida driver’s license or ability to obtain one within 30 days of hire

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