Ryan Johnson’s journey into the world of aviation began in college, where he initially pursued a degree in aeronautical science, dreaming of becoming a pilot. However, his path shifted, leading him to change his major to aviation business administration. After graduating, he joined Harrisburg International Airport (HIA) in an entry-level operations position and has now been with the airport for 16 years.
Passion for Aviation
His passion for airport operations was sparked at a young age when he won a free plane ride in middle school, an experience that hooked him on aviation ever since. Today, he heads the Operations department at HIA, a role that leverages his extensive experience and passion for the field.
The Operations Department
The Operations department at HIA is led by Ryan Johnson and consists of a diverse team of four operations specialists. This team includes Michael, a former airline pilot; Kimberly; Trisha, a former GM at Piedmont; and Ethan, who comes from Colorado Springs airport. Together, they ensure the smooth functioning of the airport.
Key Responsibilities
Ryan’s main responsibilities include overseeing airport operations and badging. His department aligns closely with the airport’s mission of providing safe, convenient, and affordable connections for central Pennsylvania residents to the world. They operate under Part 139 certification, ensuring compliance with the certification manual through daily self-inspections and close collaboration with police and fire departments. They also manage the TSA security program and oversee construction projects, ensuring safety protocols are followed.
Unique Initiatives and Projects
One of the unique aspects of Ryan’s role is that no day is the same. For instance, his team managed a major construction project that involved tunneling under the runway. Another significant project was the overnight paving of the runway, which took three summers of work.
Adapting to Industry Changes
To maintain operational excellence amidst the evolving landscape of the aviation industry, Ryan’s team continually adapts to changes in regulations, technologies, and industry trends. Safety and security are paramount, with measures in place to protect passengers, employees, and assets within the airport premises.
Measuring Success
Success in the Operations department is difficult to measure. As Ryan puts it, “No news is good news.” The team aims to pass annual FAA inspections without discrepancies, navigate multiple TSA inspections successfully, and ensure seamless aircraft operations, particularly during the demanding winter months.
Collaboration with Other Departments
Ryan’s team works closely with other departments daily. They interact with police and fire departments for emergency training and security violations, coordinate with maintenance for terminal checks and taxiway closures, work with finance on budgets and badging, and collaborate with marketing for event vetting.
Contributing to HIA’s Vision
Through his leadership and dedication, Ryan Johnson plays a pivotal role in HIA’s vision of “More flights, more places, more often,” ensuring that the airport operates efficiently and safely, providing a high-quality experience for all its passengers.
Stay tuned for more insights into the inner workings of our airport in future blog posts!
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