New CEO Chris McLaughlin Takes Reins of Growing DFW Airport

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Dallas Fort Worth International Airport announced the appointment of Chris McLaughlin, the airport’s EVP of operations, as CEO.

McLaughlin succeeds Sean Donohue, who is retiring.

The selection of McLaughlin, made official by unanimous approval of the board of directors, follows an “extensive global search.”

“Fort Worth has become a major hub for innovation, business and opportunity, with DFW Airport being at the center of this economic engine,” said Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker, who serves on the board alongside Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson. “We welcome Chris McLaughlin into this role and are confident that his leadership will strengthen DFW’s role as a world-class gateway and a major economic driver for Fort Worth and the North Texas region.”

Donohue praised his successor, saying that McLaughlin “brings a wealth of experience that will benefit the airport as it enters a period of accelerated transformation, and I know he will excel as DFW’s next chief executive.”

The airport, just off commemorating its 50th anniversary in 2024, is in the midst of a multi-billion-dollar capital improvement. It serves about 90 million customers annually.

In his former role as EVP, McLaughlin oversaw the airport’s largest division — inclusive of airfield operations, the department of public safety, airline relations, environmental affairs, the integrated operations center, and cargo.

Previously, he served as the EVP and COO at Denver International Airport. Prior to his work at airports, McLaughlin led the Transportation Security Administration’s Office of Security Operations, where he played a critical role in establishing the TSA’s PreCheck program. His prior work in the aviation and technology industries included positions with Air Wisconsin Airlines and Frontier Airlines.

“DFW Airport has an extraordinary history, is recognized globally, and has a critical role to play in the region’s future growth,” said McLaughlin. “I am inheriting one of the best teams in the business, surrounded by true industry partners with a shared vision, supporting a community and a region that my family proudly calls home. Working together with our Board, our employees, the community and our stakeholders, we’ll continue to transform travel for our region and the world.”