ORANJESTAD, ARUBA – The Aruba Airport Authority (AAA) has announced that James Fazio will return as interim CEO of Queen Beatrix International Airport, effective August 1, 2025. The leadership shift follows a transformative year managed by an interim executive team and comes at a critical juncture for the island’s gateway hub.
Fazio, who previously held the role from 2013 to 2019, brings a deep familiarity with the airport’s operations and long-term development plans. His reappointment is the result of a strategic agreement with Royal Schiphol Group, the airport’s Dutch partner, and coincides with Aruba’s push to finalize a new Strategic Cooperation Agreement involving Schiphol and the Aruban government.
A Period of Transition and Growth
Over the past year, Aruba’s airport has undergone a series of changes, including:
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A strategic realignment of leadership and operations
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Rollout of a fully automated baggage handling system
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Phased transition of U.S.-bound airlines to a new check-in hall
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Handling growing passenger traffic within a space-limited terminal
As interim CEO, Fazio will focus on maintaining operational stability, ensuring readiness for a scheduled DCAA audit, and pushing forward key projects, including Phase 1B of the Gateway 2030 Terminal Expansion, as well as the acceleration of Phases 2 and 3.
A Return of Proven Leadership
“James Fazio’s deep understanding of Aruba Airport and his proven leadership will provide strong continuity as we move through this important new transition,” said Marion Kan, Chairperson of the Board of Supervisory Directors.
Fazio has already reconnected with island stakeholders during a recent visit in June and is expected to lead the airport through its next phase of development while preserving daily operational efficiency.
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