CEO Viewpoint: ACAA Progress is Thanks to Our Team

I am incredibly proud of the Allegheny County Airport Authority team for what we’ve been able to accomplish over the past 10 years. Together, we are transforming Pittsburgh International Airport into a strong origin-and-destination airport after it lost its hub when US Airways left. The success that matters most to the people of our region is air service success – destinations have grown from 37 to 62 and we’ve nearly doubled the number of airlines in the past 10 years. At the same time, Allegheny County Airport is experiencing its own success and remains among the busiest airports in the state.

Recently, the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette and others have recognized that success and the progress we’ve made. PIT just finished the busiest two months this airport has seen in nearly 20 years. Certainly, we still have more work to do, but leveraging all of our airports’ assets for the benefit of our region and stakeholders is at the heart of what we do as an airport.

We have dual imperatives – safety, security, and public health AND air service. We’ve made great progress on the second, and the first is always our top priority. If we don’t get that right, nothing else matters, and I can tell you it influences every decision we make here.

As part of our transformation, we’re building a new terminal that will provide a better passenger experience for the Pittsburgh of today. And we’ve accomplished all of this despite some roadblocks along the way – including a global pandemic.

Our leadership team has been aggressive in making sure we have the right people in the right roles. Being an Authority lets us hire the right people and pay them competitively. The fit has to align with the overall vision we have of reflecting and serving the community, transforming the industry and advancing the region as a world leader.

Many have heard my story of how I arrived here. I got a call from a recruiter for this role, which was met with hesitation because I never expected to end up in Pittsburgh. But I can tell you now, that because of this meaningful work, this incredible team, and the great people of this city – I’m so glad I did.

Christina Cassotis is CEO of the Allegheny County Airport Authority.