New director takes over at ABIA

Austin-Bergstrom International Airport has a new woman at the top of the control tower. Jacqueline Yaft has been named ABIA’s executive director of aviation, effective June 10. Yaft has spent the past two decades as an airport management professional at some of the busiest hub airports in the nation, including Los Angeles World Airports, Denver International and JFK. In the press release announcing the new hire, City Manager Spencer Cronk said, “I am excited to welcome Jackie to the city of Austin. She stood out among a pool of highly qualified and talented candidates because she has the experience and skills to help Austin realize our airport of the future.” The Austin Chamber also weighed in, saying in a statement, “Jacqueline Yaft is a strong choice to lead ABIA through its next phase of passenger growth, capital projects, air service expansion and retention, and customer experience. The Chamber looks forward to working with her to ensure our airport continues to excel and serve our growing business community.”