San Diego County Regional Airport Authority president and CEO Kimberly J. Becker has announced that she will retire in March 2026 after a 40-year career in aviation. Becker, who joined SAN in 2017, led the airport to reach a record-breaking 25 million passengers in 2024 as well as several major capital improvement projects, including the $3.8-billion New Terminal 1 program. Becker focused her tenure on sustainability, leading SAN to become the second-ever carbon-neutral airport in North America. Prior to joining SAN, Becker served as director of aviation at Mineta San José International Airport (SJC) and in operations and environmental positions at Lockheed Air Terminal (now Hollywood Burbank Airport, BUR) and Teterboro Airport (TEB).
“My decision to retire from the airport authority brings to close a challenging, fulfilling, and deeply rewarding 40-year career in the aviation industry,” said Becker. “Aviation has taken me around the globe and given me the opportunity to make a difference in our community. Among my most meaningful achievements at SAN has been the opportunity to lead several transformative initiatives that have strengthened the authority’s strategic position and expanded its impact across the region and industry. It has been a distinct privilege to contribute to the development and growth of SAN. I thank the airport authority Board of Directors led by Chair Gil Cabrera, along with our employees, business partners, customers, and community for allowing me to serve and leave SAN in such a strong position.”
“Kim’s impact on San Diego, the airport authority, SAN, and the aviation industry at large cannot be overstated,” said Cabrera. “She has guided SAN through significant challenges and spearheaded a transformation that will enhance the customer experience for decades to come. It has been a privilege and honor to work with her. Kim’s legacy will be felt by all who have worked alongside her and benefited from her steady leadership. The board wishes her the very best in her well-earned retirement.”
