LONG BEACH, Calif. — The Long Beach Airport Association (LBAA) — a collaboration of Long Beach Airport businesses, private aircraft owners and community supporters — has launched a new effort to promote business diversity and preserve aviation as a vital contributor to the Southern California economy.
Representing more than 18,000 employees and 200 diverse businesses at Long Beach Airport, the LBAA has elected a new 14-member board of directors comprised of representatives from both the commercial and general aviation industries, as well as other airport businesses, aircraft owners and pilots.
It has also launched a website (www.thelbaa.org) to communicate its new mission of advancing aviation, economic growth and business diversity.
“This is a very exciting time to join LBAA’s leadership team,” said LBAA Board Member and JetBlue Airways General Manager Thomas Berg. “Long Beach Airport’s diverse commercial, general aviation and corporate facilities make it a soaring economic engine for our city and region. Although I represent the airline industry, I first experienced the airport as a private pilot when I learned how to fly. We believe that diversity and balance are key ingredients to preserving local jobs and businesses.”
Located in Southern California between Los Angeles and Orange County airports, the Long Beach Airport averages over 370,000 annual aircraft operations. It serves as a hub of corporate activity and one of the world’s busiest general aviation facilities. The airport is also home to commercial airline terminals, private flight schools, world class fixed base operators, air cargo operations, an air manufacturing center, two Class A business parks, industrial facilities, and a hotel and municipal golf course.
“Offering a full range of facilities and amenities, Long Beach Airport is clearly a gateway to Southern California and an integral part of our transportation system,” said LBAA President Curt Castagna. “The LBAA’s new direction is the result of a strategic planning process and ongoing collaboration among our members. We’re excited about working closely with airport management, city leaders and the community on marketing efforts that will sustain commerce and industry in the Long Beach area.”
LBAA’s board members include:
- President – Curt Castagna, CEO and President, Aerolease Group
- First Vice President – Eric Hill, Area Director, Signature Flight Support
- Second Vice President – Don Thompson, President, Experimental Aircraft Association
- Treasurer – John Murrill, CPA
- Secretary – Cindy Goodfellow, Manager, Aerolease Group
- Thomas Berg, General Manager, Jet Blue Airways
- Fred Cei, Executive Vice President of Sales, JFI Jets
- Phillip DiFiore, President, Island Express
- Paul Giczewski, Facilities, Security & Operations, Gulfstream Aerospace
- Paul LaGreek, Aircraft Owner
- Cody Pierce, Aces High Aviation
- Glenn Ray, Owner, MillionAir North
- Arthur Rosales, Director of Sales and Marketing, Long Beach Airport Marriott
- John Tary Aviation General Manager, AirFlite, Inc.
- Jonnie Weber, Property Manager, White Buffalo Holdings
In the months ahead, LBAA will focus on initiatives and programs to retain and attract jobs and businesses; revitalize and market the airport; address regulatory and policy challenges; and sustain commerce and industry in the region.
For more information: www.thelbaa.org.