ACI-NA President and CEO Kevin Burke to Retire in 2026

Airports Council International – North America (ACI-NA) President and CEO Kevin M. Burke has announced plans to retire at the end of 2026, marking the conclusion of more than a decade leading the industry’s primary trade association.

Burke, who has led ACI-NA since 2014, will remain in his role through the transition period as the organization’s board begins a search for his successor.

During his tenure, Burke oversaw a period of significant growth in the association’s influence, particularly in federal advocacy and infrastructure funding. ACI-NA played a key role in securing approximately $20 billion in federal relief for U.S. airports during the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as additional funding to support long-term infrastructure development.

The organization also expanded its membership programs and strengthened its financial position, reinforcing its role as a leading voice for commercial service airports across the United States and Canada.

For airport operators, the leadership transition comes at a time when policy, funding and regulatory frameworks remain critical to supporting capital development, operational resilience and long-term growth.

Burke’s tenure coincided with a transformative period for the aviation industry, including pandemic recovery, increased infrastructure investment and evolving regulatory priorities.

The ACI-NA board is expected to begin a formal search process for its next president and CEO, with a focus on maintaining continuity in advocacy and industry leadership.