CHANDLER, Ariz. — Ryan Reeves, Airport Manager of Chandler Municipal Airport, has been named the 2025 Airport Executive of the Year by the Arizona Airports Association (AzAA). In addition to this prestigious honor, Reeves also was selected as the recipient of the AzAA’s 2025 President’s Award, recognizing his outstanding leadership and service to Arizona’s aviation community.
“These awards reflect Ryan’s tireless dedication to aviation excellence and community engagement,” said Chandler Mayor Kevin Hartke. “His passion for aviation runs generations deep. Having the awards presented by his mentors and in front of his colleagues, made it extra special. On behalf of the City Council, we congratulate him on this well-deserved recognition and his leadership in advancing the success of Chandler Municipal Airport.”
Since becoming Airport Manager in 2022, Reeves has overseen key infrastructure improvements and prioritized long-term planning to enhance airport safety and future growth—all while remaining a good neighbor to surrounding neighborhoods and businesses in the Airpark Area. Reeves also is working with consultants to execute a community impact study and the development of a strategic business plan.
This past April, he worked with the Federal Aviation Administration and a research team who conducted flight tests with several different models of helicopters to test and create safety regulations that will impact all vertical takeoff and landing aircraft facilities nationwide.
Reeves and his small yet mighty team also are busy planning for the next Airport Day, a community event held at the airport scheduled for January 2026. He’s been instrumental in hosting public tours of the airport—a program that will resume after the summer months.
With 20+ years of experience, Reeves continues to play an active role in shaping aviation policy and mentoring future airport leaders through his involvement with AzAA and other professional organizations.
“Ryan is a consummate professional who not only manages one of the busiest general aviation airports in the nation, but also gives back to the aviation community in meaningful ways” said AzAA President Dave Reffner. “He’s highly deserving of both these awards.”
For more information about Chandler Municipal Airport, visit Chandler Airport.
Media contact:
Stephanie Romero
Public Information Officer, City of Chandler
480-782-2231
