James Fazio Appointed Interim CEO of Aruba Airport Authority N.V.
ORANJESTAD – Aruba Airport Authority N.V. (AAA), the manager and operator of Queen Beatrix International Airport, announces the appointment of Mr. James Fazio as Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective August 1, 2025.
This leadership transition follows the successful conclusion of the Interim Management Team’s (IMT) period and mandate, which led the organization over the past 12 months through a strategic realignment, continued operations, and the phased transition of all US-bound airlines in the new check-in hall and the taking into use of the new fully automated baggage handling system, increase in passenger volumes, and operational challenges. The decision to appoint an interim CEO ensures continued focus on operational excellence, sustainability, and strategic priorities, as final steps are taken toward formalizing a new Strategic Cooperation Agreement (SCA) between the Government of Aruba, AAA, and Royal Schiphol Group (RSG). Within this role, Mr. Fazio ensures we capitalize on his expertise to sustain operational excellence while his leadership bridges this critical period and lays the groundwork for the permanent CEO to assume responsibility under the upcoming agreement.
Mr. Fazio, a seasoned airport executive with extensive leadership experience, previously served as CEO of Aruba Airport Authority N.V. from 2013 to 2019. His recent visit to the island in June 2025 reaffirmed his familiarity with Aruba Airport’s operations and strategic vision, making him well-positioned to guide the organization during this transitional phase.
Mr. Fazio’s interim appointment is part of the agreement with Royal Schiphol Group, AAA’s long-standing strategic partner, which provides the CEO function under the terms of the SCA. His role will focus on maintaining stability in daily operations, supporting regulatory compliance ahead of the DCAA audit, and ensuring smooth implementation of key initiatives such as maintenance planning and execution, as well as the construction of Phase 1B and the acceleration of the next Phases 2 & 3 of the Gateway 2030 Terminal Expansion project.
The BOSD, shareholders of AAA, and RSG would like to thank the Interim Management Team—Aisha Anthony, Jurgen Benschop, and Barbara Brown—for their leadership, commitment, and relentless dedication during the past year. Despite facing several challenges, their steady guidance ensured business continuity, progress, and resilience during a critical transition period for AAA.