DIA set to lose its leader Phil Washington to top FAA job, report says

Denver just gave Washington a 30 percent raise.

Denver International Airport CEO Phil Washington.

Denver International Airport CEO Phil Washington.

Hart Van Denburg/CPR News
Nathaniel Minor, CPR News

The White House is set to nominate Denver International Airport CEO Phil Washington to run the Federal Aviation Administration, according to a Seattle Times report. 

The report, which relies on two unnamed sources, says a formal announcement is expected in the next few days or early next week. 

Denverite hasn’t yet been able to confirm the Times report. A DIA spokesperson referred questions to the White House. A White House official declined to confirm the Times report.

If Washington leaves DIA, Mayor Michael Hancock will have to nominate a replacement with just over a year left in his tenure as the city’s chief executive.

“Phil Washington is a recognized leader across the transportation industry, and we are lucky to have him as our CEO … It’s not surprising his name would come up when these roles are being considered,” Theresa Marchetta, a spokeswoman for Hancock, said in an email.

Washington took over at DIA last summer after leading Metro in Los Angeles and the Regional Transportation District in Denver. In his short tenure, Washington has overseen a $1.3 billion expansion and explored service expansions to Africa. Washington’s salary at DIA is now $346,975 after a recent 30 percent raise.

 

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