Jim Szczesniak, the Airport Director for the Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport, is departing ANC for new opportunities, according to a release from the Alaska Department of Transportation. Szczesniak led the airport through the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as during record levels of passenger service and cargo activity.
Szczesniak stated:
“I’ve had the privilege of working with one of the best groups of aviation professionals these past four years. I will miss Team ANC, but I am confident they will continue to deliver award winning levels of service and operational excellence.”
Szczesniak has accepted a new airport leadership opportunity in Houston, Texas.
In the interim, Deputy Commissioner John Binder will serve as Airport Director until a replacement can be found. The DOT states that Deputy Commissioner Binder has substantial aviation experience and has past experience serving as interim Airport Director.
ANC is the second busiest cargo airport in the Unites States and the fourth busiest in the world. It contributes significantly to the Alaska economy, and one in every 10 in Anchorage are associated with the airport. ANC is the gateway airport to much of Alaska for both passengers and cargo.
