The Port of Bellingham Board of Commissioners welcomed Kip Turner as the Port’s new Director of Aviation at Bellingham International Airport (BLI) at a Commission meeting last night.
Turner brings a wealth of experience in the aviation sector including managing airports in Florida, Colorado and California where he led strategic initiatives related to growth, innovation, financial strength and organizational efficiency. Turner received a bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management from Auburn University and spent time working as an Aeronautics Specialist supporting public airports across the state of Alabama with planning assistance, capital project oversight, state and federal grant backing and general management needs. Most recently Turner worked at Frontier Airlines as a Senior Manager of Airport Strategy and Affairs.
“Bellingham International Airport is an exceptional, low-cost gateway into Puget Sound,” said Turner. “I’m excited to work with the local aviation stakeholders and build on the strengths of the airport to enhance the traveling experience for recreational and business travelers as well as the vibrant general aviation community. The Bellingham airport is critical infrastructure for the regional economy and well positioned to support long-term growth.”
BLI is responsible for $471.5 million in annual economic benefit and offers non-stop commercial flights to Seattle, Las Vegas, Oakland, Denver, Phoenix, Los Angeles, Palm Springs and San Diego.
“We are excited to welcome Kip Turner to our team,” said Port Executive Director Rob Fix. “Kip’s depth of experience, passion for aviation, and vision for improving both commercial and general aviation services are well aligned with the Port’s goals for Bellingham International Airport.”
Turner is active in various aviation-related organizations including the American Association of Airport Executives. He is a single and multi-engine rated pilot who enjoys the outdoors and is excited to live in the Pacific Northwest.
Sunil Harman, the Port’s most recent Director of Aviation, retired after a long and distinguished career in the aviation industry.
For more information about Bellingham International Airport, visit https://www.portofbellingham.com/888/Airport
About the Port of Bellingham
The Port is a countywide municipal corporation with a mission to fulfill the essential transportation and economic development needs of the region. Throughout Whatcom County, the Port owns, operates and maintains approximately 1600 acres of property including a shipping terminal, a cruise terminal, two marinas, industrial development areas, commercial uplands, parklands, shoreline public access areas and an international airport. For more information about the Port of Bellingham, please visit www.portofbellingham.com
