Phillip A. Washington, CEO of Denver International Airport (DEN), the world’s second-largest airport with 33,531 acres (52.4 square miles; 135.7 kilometers). He was appointed in 2021 and re-confirmed in 2023, and he now leads the charge at the world’s third busiest airport, which handles millions of people annually.
According to Fly Denver, Washington’s Vision 100 for DEN plans to improve the airport’s capacity by 30% to accommodate 100 million passengers by 2030. He has spearheaded significant changes as the manager of a $10 billion Capital Improvement Program, including upgrading the airport, planning a massive rental car facility, and launching environmental initiatives such as plugging oil wells and installing additional solar panels.
Washington formerly served as CEO of both the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro) and the Denver Regional Transportation District (RTD). In Los Angeles, he coordinated big capital projects while managing a $8.5 billion balanced budget. His efforts resulted in the successful passage of Measure M, a half-cent sales tax that funds 40 significant projects and creates jobs.
Washington’s achievements go beyond transportation. He has been inducted into the American Public Transportation Association Hall of Fame and nominated by President Biden for the job of Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Administrator, recognizing his outstanding services.
Washington, a 24-year US Army veteran, with a B.A. in Business and an M.A. in Management.
His strong background includes chairing the Host Transportation Committee for the 2008 Democratic National Convention and obtaining awards such as the Defense Superior Service Medal. Washington’s commitment to excellence, safety, and innovation continues to influence the future of transportation.