Burlington, Vermont Mayor Miro Weinberger announced the permanent appointment of Gene Richards as Director of Aviation at the Burlington International Airport. Essentially the airport manager, Richards moves into the position after 10 months as interim director.
The Burlington International Airport is used by about 600-thousand people annually. It is serviced by Jet Blue, U.S. Airways, United, Delta and Porter Airlines, flying to nine cities, including Chicago, Detroit, Toronto and both major New York City and both Washington D.C. airports.
In the airport upstairs mezzanine, Mayor Weinberger Thursday announced that he will ask the city council at its June 3rd meeting to approve the permanent appointment of Gene Richards to lead the state’s largest airport. The mayor said he had not anticipated when he appointed him interim director that Richards would do so well that he would be the best candidate for permanent director.
Mayor Weinberger says this may be his most important appointment related to business because of the airport’s importance to the region’s economy. Burlington Business Association Executive Director Kelly Devine says the airport is a key to participation in the global economy, and Richards has already laid key groundwork for the airport’s future.
Burlington Airport Commission Chair Jeff Munger believes Richards will take the airport “where it needs to be”.
Richards is known for being a hands-on manager, and is often seen working with baggage handlers and other airport employees. He hopes to continue implementing his vision for the airport.
Richards’ permanent appointment would expire after one year, if approved by the Burlington city council.
