The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (PANYNJ) announced the completion of overhauls…
Author: Metropolitan Airport News
Metropolitan Airport News
Produced by a team of aviation professionals and enthusiasts, our mission is to inform and update the more than 68,000 employees who work on the metropolitan New York airport properties, as well as the many others that provide goods and services in the surrounding communities.
March is a wonderful month to reset after a long, cold winter as we prepare for the upcoming renewal of the Spring season. Everyone is coming out of hibernation and shaking off the cold, and the shortest days are behind us as the temperatures begin to rise. The signs are everywhere; for some, it may be the first spring flowers poking up through the ground; I love to take notice of how light it is out at 6:00PM. It feels good to not drive home in the dark. The little things add up to a lot during the change of seasons. …
Last week, The Cradle of Aviation Museum’s Inaugural Legislative Breakfast brought together Long Island’s government officials, business leaders, and community organizations, all committed to workforce development and advancing aerospace innovation. Discussions highlighted Long Island’s contributions to air and space travel, the museum’s role in shaping future aerospace professionals, and programs that support education, heritage preservation, and economic growth. Attendees also experienced a screening of Cities of the Future in the Catholic Health Sky Theater Planetarium, offering insight into the role of civil engineers in designing tomorrow’s cities. “The Cradle of Aviation Museum is not just a place to celebrate history—it’s…
The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, JetBlue and Fraport USA, manager of John F. Kennedy International Airport’s Terminal 5, today announced a major refresh of the airline’s flagship terminal. More than 40 new concessions that reflect the spirit and flavors of New York and new amenities, such as art installations and a redesigned center concourse inspired by New York’s iconic parks, will create a unique New York sense of place and an elevated customer experience. The first new concessions are expected to open throughout 2025, with the terminal improvements completed by the end of 2026. JetBlue’s Terminal…
This March, Metropolitan Airport News focuses on women in the aviation industry and at our New York metropolitan area airports. We asked each of these featured women questions about their careers, work in their respective areas of the industry, women in leadership, and sustainability, and here, we offer their one-on-one insight in their own words. Due to space restrictions, we have selected specific questions and answers from each contributor to share in print. You can find the unedited responses to all questions on our website. In sharing their experience and passion for the aviation and airport industry, their work honors the women who have come before…
Karen Ali was appointed Chief Operating Officer (COO) of JFK Millennium Partners (JMP) in July 2024. A key senior leadership team member, she oversees Terminal 7 operations, managing customer experience, budgeting, capital projects, risk management, and people leadership. Additionally, she plays a pivotal role during the ongoing construction of Terminal 6, working closely with capital development and construction teams to ensure a seamless transition to the new facilities, coordinating efforts in testing, commissioning, and implementation. Ms. Ali brings nearly 20 years of experience in operations management, project leadership, and business transformation across multiple sectors, including aviation, to her role. During…
Gina’s aviation career began in 1998 at JFK International Airport with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. Starting in a clerical role, she quickly progressed to Assistant Office Engineer, gaining experience in various facility construction projects. In 2000, she moved to a Construction Administrator position at 1 WTC. Following the events of 9/11, she transitioned into the private sector, where she became a Senior ANSI-RAB Quality Management Systems Auditor. Returning to the Port Authority in 2003, she served as Office Engineer for Tenant Construction, overseeing significant airport-wide developments and numerous tenant construction fit-outs. Since 2012, Gina has…
Lauren Dascalopoulos is a passionate and dedicated Airline Manager with more than a decade of experience in the aviation industry. She began her career as a customer service agent and has worked her way up through hard work and a deep commitment to her teams and the industry. Today, as the General Manager for Hawaiian Airlines at JFK International Airport, Lauren oversees daily operations, driving excellence in customer service, safety, and efficiency while nurturing a culture of collaboration and high performance. Known for her ability to make meaningful connections, Lauren is deeply passionate about empowering her teams and making a…
Coleen DiGiorgio has dedicated over 35 years to the commercial aviation industry, building a dynamic career that seamlessly bridges airport operations and aviation construction. She began on the front lines at JFK International Airport, serving as a customer service representative for TWA and later American Airlines, where she mastered the complexities of passenger flow management and critical flight scheduling in one of the nation’s busiest hubs. Her deep understanding of airport operations led her to transition into aviation construction, where she has spent the past 24 years with VRH Construction, a highly regarded general contractor and aviation construction specialist. As…
Elida Espinosa’s career trajectory is an excellent example of growth and dedication in the travel retail industry. With over three decades of experience, she has clearly made a strong impact at Duty Free Americas. Her journey from a part-time sales associate to her current leadership role demonstrates a deep understanding of the business’s operational and customer service aspects. As the Regional General Manager of the airport division, her responsibilities not only span overseeing 19 stores, but she also plays a key role in maintaining high operational standards and fostering relationships with airport authorities and partners. Elida’s customer service, visual merchandising,…
With more than 15 years in the aviation industry, Vanita is a champion of change who enhances the overall customer experience. Vanita serves as a Manager for Customer Care at American Airlines, located in John F. Kennedy International Airport’s Terminal 8, where she helps to lead the customer care organization toward new heights, ensuring that every passenger’s journey is marked by efficiency and satisfaction. Before her tenure at American, Vanita served as the General Manager for Travelspan, a charter airline & tour operator. Beyond her career, Vanita channels her passion towards humanitarian endeavors and traveling the world. How did you…