The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority Names Syed Mehdi, A.A.E., as Vice President, Airport Planning

The Metropolitan Nashville Airport Authority has named Syed Mehdi, A.A.E., as Vice President, Airport Planning. In this position, Mr. Mehdi will lead the organization through strategic infrastructure and facility planning. He will also manage long-term planning, including developing airport master plan updates and near-term planning projects, and the airport capital improvement plan. He began his new role on July 1, 2024.

Mr. Mehdi has more than 28 years of experience in airport management. Most

recently, he was Chief Enterprise Asset Management Officer for San Antonio International Airport where he led the organization’s Strategy, Performance Management, Employee Development and Engagement, Procurement, Business Opportunity & Diversity (DBE/ACDBE) and Innovation functions. Mr. Mehdi has also worked for Modalis Infrastructure Partners as Airport Planning Consultant and for Landrum & Brown as Managing Consultant – Planning. Previously, he was Head, Airport Safety and Aviation Security for Civil Aviation Affairs in the Kingdom of Bahrain and also served as Director, Commercial Air Service, Marketing & Public Relations for Bahrain International Airport.

“I am excited to join Nashville International Airport as the Vice President of Airport Planning because of BNA's impressive reputation for forward-thinking and excellence,” said Mr. Mehdi. “The opportunity to shape the future of such a rapidly growing airport is incredibly motivating. I look forward to working with the dedicated team at BNA to drive innovative infrastructure projects that will elevate the passenger experience and operational efficiency. Together, we will ensure that BNA continues to be a leading gateway for travelers and a model of airport excellence.”

Mr. Mehdi received a bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Osmania University. He went on to earn his master’s degree in Airport Planning & Management from Loughborough University. Mr. Mehdi is an Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.) of the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE).