Sam Samaddar, the director of Kelowna International Airport, has been elected chair of AirportsCouncil International-North America, an influential organization that represents hundreds of airports in the U.S. and Canada. “As we continue to respond to a rapidly evolving future for our industry, I have no doubt that Sam’s experience and leadership will help ACI-NA and all of our airports to navigate the unique challenges we’ve encountered in recent years and keep our industry moving forward,” said the organization’s president and CEO Kevin Burke.
Samaddar started his airport career at Vancouver International Airport in 1988. He moved to Kelowna as superintendent of airport operations in 1992. He was named director in 2008 and takes over the industry group at a challenging time for airports. “Our industry’s recovery is underway, but a clear path forward remains elusive as we continue to navigate the challenges presented by an ongoing pandemic,” said Samaddar. “But, our industry is proactive and resilient, so I am confident our brightest days are ahead. I look forward to representing this innovative industry and working alongside my colleagues to advance key priorities over the next two years.”