Steve Belton, C.M.
Airport Operations Superintendent
Philadelphia International Airport - City of Philadelphia
Age 39
Steve Belton, C.M., serves as the Airport Operations Superintendent at Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), where he oversees the newly established Airport Operations Center (AOC). His journey with the Philadelphia Department of Aviation began in 2011 as an Airport Operations Trainee, and today, Belton leads the AOC—a central hub for operations, communications, and security at PHL. This facility, which opened in early 2024, consolidates key airport functions such as emergency dispatch, job control, IT, and passenger services, creating a unified system that improves response times and enhances the passenger experience.
“Every day is different,” he said. “Every day there’s a new problem to solve and it’s fun.”
Belton's role is multifaceted; he manages AOC personnel, ensuring that critical updates are relayed swiftly to departments tasked with decision-making. His team plays a central role in directing operations such as aircraft parking, dispatching airfield maintenance during inclement weather, and managing diversions. Since assuming leadership of the AOC, Belton has introduced new processes to streamline operations, including daily briefings with airport partners to anticipate and address operational challenges.
Belton’s expertise extends beyond daily operations. He was instrumental in PHL’s role in Operation Allies Welcome, coordinating logistics for over 25,000 Afghan refugees in a historic humanitarian mission. His team tracked inbound and outbound flights, coordinating with federal agencies and local organizations to ensure safe processing and efficient transit for 29,713 evacuees on 336 flights. This initiative showcased Belton’s leadership and his commitment to the broader mission of the airport and the community.
Additionally, Belton manages several budget services totaling nearly $1 million, covering airport and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) needs. He introduced a web-based tool for monitoring Delaware River ship traffic, saving the airport over $100,000 annually. His collaborative approach and problem-solving capabilities make him a valuable asset to PHL, where he is dedicated to continuous improvement and supporting the airport’s mission.
Belton’s dedication to the industry is evident in his problem-solving, his proactive leadership, and his engagement with professional organizations. He actively leads initiatives to improve passenger experiences, such as reducing security wait times post-pandemic and facilitating dialogue among stakeholders. By establishing regular meetings with airline station managers, CBP representatives, and international carriers, he has fostered an environment of open communication and responsiveness at PHL. For instance, he organized a solution to an escalator malfunction that impacted international arrivals, coordinating with CBP, Public Affairs, and international airlines to ensure continuity of service.
Belton’s work with the interim CEO of Airports Council International - North America on a CBP committee further underscores his influence in aviation operations. His Certified Member (C.M.) designation through the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) is another testament to his commitment to the field.
Throughout his career, Belton has shown dedication to operational excellence, a commitment to public service, and an unwavering drive to support both his team and the larger aviation industry.
