SPOKANE, Wash. (Aug. 19, 2025) – Following joint approval from the City of Spokane and Spokane County earlier today, the Spokane Airport Board has confirmed airport industry veteran David Haring, A.A.E. will take over as chief executive officer of Spokane Airports, beginning October 6.
Haring brings more than 20 years of aviation leadership experience to role, which includes oversight of Spokane International Airport (GEG), Felts Field (SFF), the Airport Business Park, as well as the Airport’s new Rail-Truck Transload Center. Since 2014, Haring has served as the executive director of Lincoln Airport in Nebraska, where he led the development and implementation of infrastructure, operations and policy advancements that helped propel the city into a premier transportation gateway. During his tenure, Haring was a vocal leader of the coalition that amended the state constitution to give local governments control of how airport funding is used, leading to expanded commercial flight offerings.
“The Airport Board evaluated several exceptional candidates as part of our nationwide search, and David stood out as the unanimous choice to guide the organization into its next chapter,” said Ezra Eckhardt, Spokane Airport Board Chair. “David has a proven track record of building cohesive, dynamic teams and understands there is a direct connection between the strength of our airports and the strength of our regional economy. The Board is confident his fresh perspective, coupled with his extensive commercial and general aviation experience and keen focus on customer service will build on the strong foundation airport staff have set to further enhance the air travel experience for the Spokane-Coeur d’Alene region.”
Haring arrives to Spokane during a time of transformative growth, highlighted by record-breaking passenger traffic, an expanding lineup of nonstop destinations, continued investment in airfield and facility infrastructure, and a new terminal vision. In Q3 2026, the Airport expects to fully complete the first phase of its Terminal Renovation and Expansion (TREX) Program, the Concourse C Expansion Project, and subject to future funding, look to commence work on a Central Hall shortly thereafter.
“Leading Spokane Airports is an incredible opportunity, and an immense privilege,” said Haring. “Over the past several years, the team has worked diligently to refine a front door image synonymous with comfort and efficiency, while fortifying the airport’s role as a regional economic engine. I look forward to strengthening this momentum, working closely with the board, staff and our airport partners to enhance connectivity and opportunities for the Inland Northwest.”
Prior to his work in Lincoln, Haring spent 13 years at Cheyenne Regional Airport, most recently serving as the organization’s director of aviation. He earned a bachelor's in business administration with a focus in airport management from the University of North Dakota. He is also a VFR-certified private pilot.
With a passion for leadership and a desire to serve as a resource for future generations, Haring has spent almost all of his career involved in academic relations and early career mentorship at a variety of levels. He is a long-term member of the Academic Relations Committee and a Past President of the Great Lakes Chapter of the American of Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) where, as president, he oversaw the creation of the Chapter’s first Young Professionals (Yo-Pro) committee and the establishment of the Chapter’s Emerging Professional Award. He also serves on the Board of Directors for Leadership Lincoln, Inc.
