Miguel Southwell was confirmed as leader of the world’s busiest airport by the Atlanta City Council on Monday.
Atlanta Mayor Kasim Reed’s selection of Southwell for the position of general manager of Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport was approved by two council committees before unanimous confirmation by the full city council.
Southwell, 58, came to Hartsfield-Jackson a year ago as deputy general manager of commercial operations, having previously held a similar position at Miami International Airport. He was already a familiar face in Atlanta, having previously worked at Hartsfield from 1990 until 2001.
Southwell was named interim general manager late last year after the retirement of former Hartsfield-Jackson general manager Louis Miller. As Miller’s permanent replacement is paid $221,000 a year.
Reed selected Southwell over two other finalists for the position who are top managers at smaller airports.
Southwell faces many challenges, including completion of a master plan for improvements such as additional concourses and a sixth runway, negotiation of a long-term lease with Delta Air Lines and efforts to increase air cargo.
Southwell said he also wants to add volunteers to help travelers find their way around the terminal, strengthen the airport’s relationship with surrounding neighborhoods and improve outreach on hiring at the airport.
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