Interim Airport Director Appointed by City of Newport News and Peninsula Airport Commission

The Peninsula Airport Commission, in partnership with the City of Newport News, announced the appointment of Chris Morello as Interim Executive Director of the Newport News-Williamsburg Airport (PHF). Morello, Assistant Director of the city's Department of Development, will serve in the role on loan from the city.

"I grew up in Newport News, under the airport's flight path, and stepping into this role is a privilege," said Morello of his appointment. "Joining the airport team to support its management and operations builds on the strong collaboration I've already had with City colleagues and the Airport Commission, particularly around preparing runway-accessible property for industrial development. The airport is a unique and valuable regional asset, and I am committed to helping it reach its full economic potential."

This leadership transition comes at a pivotal time for the airport, following the release of a comprehensive study that outlined a strategic path forward to improve and diversify the airport's long-term economic impact. The study emphasized the need for evolving aviation and aeronautical uses at PHF, to be accomplished in part by stronger regional collaboration - needs Morello is uniquely positioned to meet.

"Chris Morello brings more than 28 years of public sector experience and a strong record of collaboration across local governments in the region," said Lindsey Carney, Chair of the Peninsula Airport Commission (PAC). "His appointment reflects our commitment shared with the City to reposition PHF as an Air Commerce Park at the forefront of cutting edge technology and aviation excellence led by strong airport leadership supported by the Peninsula Airport Commission, aligning efforts with the findings of the recent study."

Morello's extensive experience with large scale industrial site development includes but is not limited to Oyster Point and City Center, Oakland Industrial Park, Tech Center and publicly-managed properties adjacent to the airport. His public service career spans multiple localities and leadership roles. He joined the City of Newport News in 1999, holding various positions including Senior Project Coordinator, Administrator of Development Projects, and Special Assistant to the City Manager. He assumed the role of Economic Development Director for Isle of Wight County in 2018, then returned to the City of Newport News in his current capacity in 2023.

"Chris's deep understanding of the region, his experience in economic development, and his steady leadership style will help bring stability during this important time of transition," said Newport News Mayor Phillip Jones. "We're proud to support the airport's future by sharing one of our most capable leaders."

Morello holds a Master of Public Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and a Bachelor of Science in Telecommunications Journalism from James Madison University.

As Interim Executive Director, Morello will work closely with airport staff, the PAC, and regional stakeholders to address key recommendations from the airport study, maintain operational continuity, and support long-term strategic planning. He will remain in this role until the airport's Executive Director position is filled.

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