Board Members with the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) selected Lance Lyttle to serve as the next Chief Executive Officer of the Aviation Authority, overseeing Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two premier gateways to Central Florida.
Orlando International is one of the nation’s Top 10 airports with a passenger volume exceeding 57M. ORL provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.
Mr. Lyttle will be responsible for leading a multi-billion-dollar capital improvement program to enhance both airports.
“Lance Lyttle is a forward-thinking leader with a deep commitment to innovation and a successful record of overseeing the development of new airport terminals in both Seattle and Houston while playing key supportive roles for capital projects in Atlanta,” said Tim Weisheyer, GOAA Board Chairman. “With ongoing projects to enhance the passenger experience, our expanding infrastructure, and our role as a key economic driver for the region, we are confident that Mr. Lyttle will continue to elevate Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports as premier gateways for travelers and businesses alike. We look forward to working together as we embark on this exciting new chapter."
Mr. Lyttle is currently the Managing Director of Aviation for Seattle-Tacoma Airport. He began his aviation career in 1999 at Hartsfield Jackson International Airport as Chief Information Officer. He was then appointed Chief Strategy and Performance Officer for the Houston Airport System before moving through the ranks to Chief Development Officer and Chief Operating Officer. He holds a bachelor’s degree in physics and computer science, and a master’s degree in management information from the University of West Indies.
In December, the GOAA Board launched a search for a new CEO after current CEO Kevin J. Thibault announced his resignation due to a family illness. At Chairman Weisheyer’s request, Mr. Thibault has stayed on as CEO and will assist with the upcoming transition.
“On behalf of the Board, I want to extend our deepest gratitude to Kevin for his exceptional leadership and unwavering commitment to the Aviation Authority and our community,” said Weisheyer. “His vision and dedication have played a pivotal role in guiding our airports through the record-setting growth it has experienced. Orlando International and Orlando Executive airports are better today because of his insight and steady hand at the helm. We respect his decision to prioritize family but will undoubtedly miss his invaluable contributions.”
“I’m filled with gratitude to the entire GOAA team, members of the Board, and the Central Florida community for the privilege of leading one of the nation’s top airports,” Thibault said. “Serving as CEO, a career and personal highlight for me, has been an incredible honor, and I’m proud of what we have accomplished together. I’m committed to ensuring a smooth transition during this period and am excited for the future of our airports.”
Mr. Lyttle could begin serving as CEO as early as next month (April 2025), pending successful contract negotiations.
In other Board action, members voted to appoint Stephanie Kopelousos to finish the term of Vice Chairman of the board, a role previously held by Dr. John L. Evans, Jr.
