Greg Phillips, the Colorado Springs Airport (COS) Director of Aviation, today announced his retirement. His last day with the City is Feb. 7.
“We thank Greg for his contributions to the City of Colorado Springs and the Colorado Springs Airport,” said Mayor Yemi Mobolade. “Greg’s work overseeing the growth and expansion of the airport to keep up with the demands of our growing city will positively impact Colorado Springs and the millions of passengers who travel through the COS terminal for years to come. We wish Greg the very best in his retirement.”
Phillips was hired by former Mayor John Suthers in January 2017. During his tenure, he oversaw a record number of passengers traveling through COS thanks to the continuous expansion of air service and nonstop flight options, including for the first time, international travel to Cancun, Mexico, beginning this summer. His team is also leading a $36 million Concourse Modernization project, known as ElevateCOS, for a more modern, accessible, and sustainable airport with enhanced traveler amenities.
“It has been an honor to work with the incredible team at the Colorado Springs Airport for the past 8 years, during which we have seen incredible growth and made significant contributions to our community,” said Phillips. “From more than doubling our air service, to adding new carriers, to the upcoming addition of the first international air service in Colorado Springs’ history, it has been an amazing run. I’m grateful for the opportunity to have served Colorado Springs.”
Phillips is a graduate of the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and served as a helicopter pilot and Army Ranger. After leaving the military, Phillips worked as an engineering project manager for Boeing and in the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) prior to multiple roles in executive airport management.
Alex Kovacs, COS Airport Assistant Director of Construction and Finance, will serve as the acting director. Kovacs has a wealth of aviation experience, having served in various roles at the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority for 16 years, where he was responsible for finance, budget, and risk management, and he is a Certified Member of the American Association of Airport Executives. The City will post the position and begin a national search for a new COS Airport Director of Aviation.