Idaho Falls, ID – Idaho Falls Regional Airport (IDA) Director, Craig Davis recently announced that he is resigning from his position. He will be relocating to Hawaii to work for the Airports Division of the Hawaii Department of Transportation. Davis has been the director of IDA since October 2012.
Davis brought a wealth of management experience to IDA related to airport operations; safety and security; capital improvements; grant administration; air service development; personnel management; environmental impact; and Fixed-Base Operator management and planning that has been incredibly valuable to the city of Idaho Falls.
“While I am very sad to see him go, I am very happy to have had his expertise and leadership here at the city serving to build our airport over these past 6 years,” states Idaho Falls Mayor Rebecca Casper. “I wish him well in the future. His low-key, competent leadership style surely will be missed.”
The airport has seen significant growth and improvements in service, safety and operations under Davis’ leadership. For two consecutive years, IDA has passed the annual FAA safety inspection with zero discrepancies – the highest rating a commercial airport can receive. The rating also came with comments and accolades for IDA’s efficiency, management and overall safety.
Over the past six years, the airport has requested and received multiple federal grants for airport improvements and expansions. IDA received $2.5 million for the south terminal expansion, $2.4 million for the south quad ramp expansion, $2.3 million for the commercial ramp expansion and de-icing pad, $9 million for the Taxiway A, C and Runway 2/20 rehabilitation project and $3.6 million for the baggage claim expansion project, which will be constructed this summer.
In 2016, new revenue streams were created for the airport by adding three new corporate hangars and a new Enterprise Rent-a-car storage and maintenance facility. Other accomplishments include a successful Runway 17/35 Planning Study that will result in maintaining the runway use and increase safety.
IDA also extended their aircraft rescue and specialized aircraft firefighting to 24-hour coverage, making our airport much safer for pilots who must land after-hours.
Among other improvements, Davis oversaw the launch of IDA’s rebranding project. Rebranding was part of a comprehensive air service-marketing plan aimed at increasing participation and awareness of the airport’s offerings within the community.
“Craig worked tirelessly to attract and expand flights to the area including new flights to Denver and Minneapolis-St. Paul, recently striking a tentative deal with Alaska Airlines to begin a non-stop flight to Seattle. He knew that bringing in competition to the IDA marketplace could result in lower airfares,” added Mayor Casper.
As an air transportation center for eastern Idaho, southern Montana, and western Wyoming, IDA serves as an access point to some of American’s favorite tourist destinations. IDA is an economic driver for southeast Idaho and contributes to the economic well-being of the city. IDA operates from the city’s enterprise fund as a financially self-sustaining entity.
“I am moving on to pursue other endeavors,” explained Davis. “I have enjoyed my tenure working with the airport, city, county, community and business partners. We have had many successes we’ve championed together for the betterment of the airport and the city. I’ve made many friends and professional relationships and will always have fond memories of living and working in eastern Idaho. The environment at the airport has been very supportive and collaborative and one that I have enjoyed. I wish everyone happiness, health and success! Mahalo and Aloha!”
Media Note: For more information or to schedule an interview with city staff, contact Public Information Officer, Kerry Hammon at (208) 612-8122 or khammon@idahofallsidaho.gov.
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