Christina Cassotis has been named the recipient of the 2021 Airport Consultants Council (ACC) Aviation Award of Excellence. The award will be formally presented at this year's ACC Annual Conference in Napa, California, on Oct. 25.
The Aviation Award of Excellence is presented annually to recognize an individual’s or organization’s extraordinary contributions to the aviation industry that are visionary and innovative, have advanced the industry, and have served the good of the general public. Cassotis was selected for this is award by a panel of airport development professionals from across the country, in recognition of her long career in airports and for her strong leadership through the COVID-19 pandemic.
Currently working as chief executive officer at the Allegheny County Airport Authority, Cassotis has transformed the Pittsburgh International Airport (PIT) into the world-leading airport it is today. Her passion for improving the travel journey has spurred many changes. These include advocating for increased autonomy for the passenger throughout the airport travel experience, increasing control over their environment, reducing stress, and establishing a brand-value for airports and promoting traveler loyalty. Cassotis's leadership through the COVID 19 pandemic was instrumental in the advancement of capital projects at PIT and furthering a diverse and empowered workforce within PIT community.
“ACC is pleased to present Christina Cassotis the ACC Aviation Award of Excellence this year,” said President T.J. Schulz. “Christina has had a long, impactful career in aviation and airports, and she has led PIT through numerous changes and challenges. She is recognized as an industry leader and is very deserving of this award.”
