Port of Bellingham appoints new director of aviation at international airport
The Port of Bellingham has a new Director of Aviation at Bellingham International Airport, according to a news release.
The new director, Matthew Rodriguez, first started working at the port as an airport rescue firefighter and operations specialist, and then was appointed as an airport operations manager at the airport for the past five years.
“Matthew’s experience, teamwork, and comprehensive understanding of airport operations make him the ideal choice to guide BLI through its next phase of growth. His commitment to maintaining a high-quality, low-cost airport while developing new airline partnerships and opportunities aligns with our vision for BLI’s future,” Rob Fix, executive director of the Port of Bellingham, said in the news release.
Rodriguez is credited with many achievements during his time at the port, including increasing flights from Allegiant and Alaska Airlines, leading multi-million dollar projects, securing federal grants, expanding airline partnerships, and leading an advisory committee focused on airport operations and development.
“This appointment reflects Matthew’s outstanding leadership, dedication, and deep understanding of BLI’s mission and operations,” the news release states.
As director, Rodriguez will oversee a $15 million project to repave runways, a $100 million airport traffic control tower replacement and other “strategic initiatives aimed at enhancing BLI’s service offerings and infrastructure.”
“Bellingham International Airport plays a vital role in our region’s transportation network, and I am honored to serve as the next director of aviation,” Rodriguez said.
“There is tremendous potential for growth at BLI, and together with our dedicated team, we are committed to delivering on the port’s and airport’s shared vision — expanding access to unserved and underserved markets that our community desires. We also remain focused on supporting and strengthening our general aviation businesses and tenants, ensuring BLI continues to serve as a valuable and inclusive hub for all who rely on it,” Rodriguez said.
