Aruba Airport Authority N.V. (AAA), the operator of Queen Beatrix International Airport, has announced the appointment of James Fazio as Interim Chief Executive Officer, effective August 1st, 2025.
Fazio’s appointment comes after the successful completion of the Interim Management Team’s (IMT) 12-month mandate, which guided the airport through a period of strategic realignment, managed ongoing operations, supported the phased relocation of all US-bound airlines to the new check-in hall, and introduced a fully automated baggage handling system. During this period, AAA also faced increased passenger volumes and operational challenges.
The interim CEO role will help maintain AAA’s focus on operational excellence, sustainability, and strategic priorities as it finalizes a new Strategic Cooperation Agreement (SCA) with the Government of Aruba and its long-term partner, Royal Schiphol Group (RSG). Fazio will leverage his experience to ensure smooth operations while preparing the organization for the transition to a permanent CEO under the new agreement.
Fazio, a highly experienced airport executive, previously served as CEO of AAA from 2013 to 2019. During a recent visit to the island in June 2025, he reconnected with Aruba Airport’s operations and strategic plans, making him well-positioned to lead the organization through this transitional period.
“We are confident that James Fazio’s deep knowledge of Aruba Airport and proven leadership will provide strong continuity as we move into this important next phase,” said Marion Kan, Chairperson of the Board of Supervisory Directors (BOSD) of AAA. “His return strengthens our commitment to stability, safety, and long-term growth, even as we address the challenges of integrating new equipment and processes at a busy, capacity-constrained airport.”
Fazio’s interim appointment is part of the SCA agreement with Royal Schiphol Group, which supplies the CEO function. In this role, he will focus on maintaining stable daily operations, supporting regulatory compliance ahead of the DCAA audit, and ensuring smooth delivery of key projects such as maintenance programs and the construction of Phase 1B, along with accelerating Phases 2 and 3 of the Gateway 2030 Terminal Expansion.
The BOSD, AAA’s shareholders, and RSG also thanked the members of the Interim Management Team — Aisha Anthony, Jurgen Benschop, and Barbara Brown — for their dedication and leadership over the past year. Despite facing challenges, the IMT successfully safeguarded business continuity, progress, and resilience during a critical transition.
About AUA Airport
AUA Airport is one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean, welcoming over 3.2 million passengers each year through partnerships with more than 25 airlines, serving 31 cities and offering 45 non-stop destinations. Its passenger traffic is made up of approximately 77% from the United States and Canada, 15% from Latin America, 4% from Europe, and 4% from the Dutch Caribbean.
AUA Airport’s success is built on Aruba’s stable economy, safe environment, and warm, multilingual population. The airport aims to be one of the most sustainable, safe, and future-proof airports in Latin America and the Caribbean, offering excellent customer service and modern facilities that reflect Aruban hospitality and help build a prosperous future for the island.
Learn more at www.airportaruba.com and connect on social media via twitter.com/Aruba_Airport, facebook.com/ArubaAirport, instagram.com/arubaairport/, tiktok.com/@arubaairport, and linkedin.com/ArubaAirport
