CHARLESTON, S.C. – The Charleston County Aviation Authority announced that Sen. Paul Campbell, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Director, has decided to retire. Elliott Summey, a member of the Aviation Authority’s board of directors and Chair of Charleston County Council, has been named Campbell’s successor.
Established as a special purpose district by the State of South Carolina, Charleston County Aviation Authority (CCAA) is responsible for managing, operating and developing three airports in the Charleston County Airport District. The airport generates revenue to support its operations and does not receive tax funding from Charleston County.
Campbell has served as CCAA’s Executive Director and CEO since August 2013. He will stay on to support the transition process.
“It has been an incredible experience serving in this role the last 6 and a half years. I am both honored and grateful for the opportunity. Most importantly, I am so proud of what the CCAA employees and our partners have accomplished, not just for our airports but for our community.”
“The time is right for my retirement for a number of reasons. We have achieved unprecedented growth in air service and passenger volumes. Our capital projects are operating on schedule and on budget. CCAA is performing extremely well operationally and financially. And the Board and our leadership team have laid out a strategic vision for the next decade. All that gives me confidence in passing the baton.”
During his tenure, the number of passengers traveling through Charleston International Airport has increased 68%, from 2.9 million in 2013 to over 4.8 million last year. A $200 million terminal renovation project was completed, and a new $90 million parking structure is under construction and slated to open this fall.
The recruitment of new air carriers and establishment of nonstop destinations has been impressive at South Carolina’s largest airport since Campbell was named Executive Director. Last April, Charleston International launched the state’s first nonstop transatlantic air service when British Airways started flights between Charleston and London. Alaska Airlines, Allegiant
and Frontier were also welcomed as new carriers. Simultaneously, existing airlines have introduced new destinations and larger aircraft.
The Airport’s route map has expanded to include nonstop flights to 28 cities across 18 states, the District of Columbia and the United Kingdom.
In 2019, Charleston International was named one of the top 10 airports in the U.S. in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards.
“With Paul at the helm, the Authority has generated incredible momentum. Without question, the Aviation Authority is in a stronger, more stable position than before Paul joined us,” said Helen Hill, Chair of the CCAA Board of Directors.
“We are grateful for Paul’s commitment and service and wish him all the best as he prepares for this well-deserved new chapter,” Hill added.
Summey was appointed CCAA’s new chief executive at a called Board meeting Monday afternoon. Summey will begin immediately.
Hill commented, “How fortunate it is that we do not have to look beyond our own board for a talented and qualified individual.”
“Elliott Summey brings a unique skill set that aligns perfectly with what the board seeks, and expects, of its next Executive Director / CEO. He is a respected, decisive, visionary leader. Because of his service on the Board he understands both the current context and CCAA’s future opportunities. We are fortunate that Paul and Elliott will have several months on the job together. That equates to much-needed continuity,” said Hill.
Summey has served on the CCAA Board for a total of ten years. His most recent term began in January 2019.
Hill also acknowledged Summey’s demonstrated expertise in land planning and development, along with his extensive political background.
“Elliott knows this community and is adept at representing this region and working effectively with local and state officials,” commented Hill.
“I congratulate Elliott on his appointment and am excited to work with him during the transition. I know that under his leadership the CCAA will continue to prosper,” said Campbell.
“It is humbling and exciting to accept this position, and I appreciate the Board’s confidence. It will be a privilege to lead CCAA and the talented employees that make it so successful,” said Summey.
“I am keenly aware that Charleston International is a catalyst for economic development. The Aviation Authority is a community asset. For local residents, air service impacts quality of life. For visitors, whether business or leisure, we are often the Lowcountry’s front door.
“CCAA has achieved unparalleled results under Paul’s leadership. I am committed to building on that foundation and meeting the high expectations that our passengers, the Board and the community have for our three airports. Our focus will remain on the passenger experience. We will continue to ensure our infrastructure meets demand. And we will advance our vital role as a facilitator of economic growth across the region,” continued Summey.
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