Meet David Haring: The New Vision Guiding Spokane's Airports

David Haring Selected to Lead Spokane Airports Authority as New Chief Executive

In a significant leadership transition, the Spokane Airport Board of Directors has officially appointed David Haring as the next Chief Executive Officer of the Spokane Airports Authority. His tenure is scheduled to commence on October 6th.

A Veteran Leader Steps Into the Top Role

Haring, who has served as the organization's Deputy CEO for eight years, brings a wealth of institutional knowledge and operational experience to the position. His deep understanding of the airports' daily functions and long-term strategic goals positioned him as the standout candidate during a nationwide search. The board expressed strong confidence that his internal leadership will ensure a seamless transition and provide stability for the organization and its staff.

Navigating a Critical Period for Regional Aviation

The incoming CEO will immediately face a complex set of opportunities and challenges. Key priorities for the new administration include:

• Overseeing major terminal modernization and expansion projects.


• Managing increased passenger volumes and evolving travel patterns.


• Forging stronger economic and cargo partnerships to benefit the entire region.


• Balancing infrastructure growth with fiscal responsibility and community impact.

His predecessor, who held the role for over a decade, left a legacy of significant development, setting a high bar for the future of the aviation facilities.

Officials have stated that Haring's immediate focus will be on building relationships with stakeholders and finalizing strategic plans for the coming year. The community and travelers alike will be watching closely as this new chapter for the region's primary air travel hubs begins.

What do you think?

• Is promoting from within the best strategy for a major public-facing organization, or does it risk maintaining the status quo?


• With air travel demand fluctuating, should the primary focus be on expanding passenger capacity or diversifying into cargo and other aviation revenue streams?


• Do major airport renovation projects truly benefit the average traveler, or do they primarily lead to higher costs for airlines and passengers?


• Is a single, powerful CEO the right model for running a public airport, or should a more collaborative, board-driven approach be implemented?