The Airport Business Top 40 Under 40 program is one of the industry’s most respected recognitions, designed to spotlight the professionals who are shaping aviation’s present while building its future. Each year, the program highlights 40 individuals under the age of 40 whose work is already influencing how airports, airlines, consultants, and partners operate, innovate, and serve their communities.
What sets the program apart is the depth and competitiveness of the nomination process. Airport Business receives hundreds of nominations annually from across North America, submitted by airport executives, industry peers, colleagues, mentors, and organizational leaders. These nominations represent a broad cross-section of the aviation ecosystem, including airport operations, planning and development, engineering, sustainability, finance, technology, communications, and emerging areas of innovation.
Every nomination is reviewed and vetted by the Airport Business editorial team, using a consistent set of criteria focused on both current impact and long-term influence. Candidates are evaluated on:
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Innovation and leadership – how they are introducing new ideas, approaches, or solutions within their role or organization
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Outstanding professional attributes – including responsibility level, career progression, and the ability to influence outcomes beyond their job title
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Commitment to the aviation industry – demonstrated through industry involvement, mentorship, professional organizations, community engagement, and thought leadership
The selection process is intentionally rigorous. Recognition is not based on popularity, company size, or sponsorship, but on the measurable contributions nominees are making to the industry today and their potential to shape aviation in the years ahead.
Being named a Top 40 Under 40 reflects more than individual achievement—it signals peer recognition, industry trust, and leadership potential. Collectively, each class represents the next generation of decision-makers, innovators, and advocates who will guide airports and aviation organizations through an era of rapid change, investment, and opportunity.
Check out the past year's winners here.
