Airport director sets sights on more flights

Fred Segundo, 44, says increase would boost city economy

The city's new aviation director hopes to bring more flights, more convenience and more destinations to Corpus Christi International Airport.

Fred Segundo started work last week and spent his first days on the job reviewing certification manuals and security plans. As airport director, Segundo is responsible for all airport operations, maintenance and security.

"My intent and vision is to take the citizens of Corpus Christi where they want to fly," he said.

That means reviewing final destinations of current travelers, taking that information to airlines and proving that Corpus Christi residents are interested in more flights to more destinations.

"We have to show them the business opportunity that we have for them in Corpus," Segundo said.

In addition to providing greater convenience for existing travelers, more flights means more travelers to the city's airport as well as more money spent on parking and eating, which further fills the city's coffers.

"I'm not saying it's going to be easy," he said. "And I'm not saying it's going to be quick, but if we put a good plan together and involve the community and involve the airport we will get there."

Segundo also will be in charge of the Corpus Christi International Airport Business Centre, which has 57 acres available for leasing adjacent to the airport and no tenants, said airport spokeswoman Amy Gazin.

Segundo, 44, worked as the director for operations and maintenance and as the assistant director at McAllen's airport for five years. He also served in the Marines for 21 years, working mostly with airfield operations, and likes to say he did his first airfield inspection at 18, when he joined the Marines.

He walked the airfield, visually inspecting the area to ensure it was safe for landings, as still is done daily at all airports, he said.

Segundo's salary is $97,000.

Former director Dave Hamrick left in April for a job with the Tucson Airport Authority after 13 years in Corpus Christi.

Assistant airport director Debra Keller retired last month. Gazin said it will be Segundo's decision whether another assistant director is needed.

Contact Beth Wilson at 886-3748 or wilsonb@caller.com