The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority has selected Atif Saeed as its next president and CEO, overseeing San Diego International Airport (SAN), effective March 2026. Saeed succeeds Kimberly Becker, who is retiring after a 40-year aviation career.
Saeed currently serves as CEO of the City of Philadelphia Department of Aviation, where he oversees the planning, development and operation of Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Northeast Philadelphia Airport (PNE). He has held progressively more responsible leadership roles at Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).
“The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority is excited to welcome Atif Saeed as our next President and CEO,” said Gil Cabrera, chair of the Airport Authority Board of Directors. “We also extend our deep gratitude to Kim Becker for her steady, visionary leadership and commitment to excellence. We look forward to building on that strong foundation under Mr. Saeed’s leadership.”
Saeed joins SAN after a months-long nationwide search. The airport last September completed construction of a new Terminal 1, a $3.8 billion project. However, the Airport Authority notes that SAN will continue to advance major capital improvement projects and long-term strategic initiatives designed to enhance the customer experience and strengthen regional economic impact.
“I am honored to be selected to serve as the next president and CEO of the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority,” Saeed said. “San Diego International Airport plays a vital role in the region’s economy, and I am impressed by the organization’s commitment to customer service and deep connection to the community. I look forward to working closely with the Board, employees, stakeholders, and the community to advance the Airport Authority’s mission.”
