Chattanooga Metropolitan Airport has tapped the federal government's passenger screening operation at Lovell Field to land its new vice president of operations.
Scott Broyles, the Transportation Security Administration's chief in Chattanooga since its startup more than two years ago, was named to the airport post.
Mike Landguth, the Airport Authority's president, cited Mr. Broyles' experience at the federal level and his prior work at Memphis International Airport and Northwest Airlines.
"It's unique to have someone with that background. It's well rounded," he said, adding Mr. Broyles was picked from about 75 job seekers.
Mr. Broyles, who will make $82,000 annually in what's considered the Airport Authority's No. 2 slot, called the move a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.
"The sky is the limit. The airport is headed in a direction that creates endless opportunities," he said.
The Memphis native said he will work to diversify the airport's revenue stream, especially involving himself in the development of Lovell Field's west side. Airport officials have said the area could hold new hangar space.
Also, Mr. Broyles will focus on a runway taxiway project and an upcoming air show as well as overall operations.
"We'll continue to raise the bar on operational excellence," he said.
Mr. Broyles' selection frees Mr. Landguth to focus on improving passenger traffic and air service. Mr. Landguth held the No. 2 job before being named interim airport chief in February and later its permanent head.
"We want to position ourselves for long-term growth," said Mr. Landguth. Airport traffic, after falling two of the last three years, is up about 3 percent through October compared to a year ago.
Charles Brockman, who directs TSA's operations in East Tennessee, said he will oversee the agency at Chattanooga's airport until a replacement for Mr. Broyles is named in 2005.
