Tweed-New Haven Airport Executive Director Tom Rafter Announces Plans to Retire
New Haven, CT – The Tweed-New Haven Airport Authority (TNHAA) and Tweed-New Haven Airport formally announced the retirement timeline for Executive Director Tom Rafter, which was first announced during the TNHAA board meeting last August. He will retire in 2026 at the conclusion of his current contract, following a planned transition period. The Authority’s Board has initiated the process to identify and recruit the next Executive Director to lead the organization through its next phase of growth and development.
Under Rafter’s leadership, Tweed-New Haven Airport has advanced through one of the most dynamic periods in its 94-year history. Passenger traffic has grown from fewer than 30,000 in 2021 to more than 700,000 in the past year. The airport has also achieved significant milestones, with the design of the new East Terminal now 70 percent complete and progress continuing on the runway extension project—both major investments that will strengthen Southern Connecticut’s economic and transportation infrastructure.
“It has been an honor to lead the Tweed-New Haven Airport Authority and work with such a dedicated team of professionals,” said Tom Rafter. “I’m proud of how far the airport has come and confident it’s well-positioned for continued success. Ensuring a smooth transition will allow the Authority and its partners to maintain momentum as Tweed enters its next exciting chapter!”
“Tom’s leadership has been instrumental in guiding Tweed-New Haven Airport through an era of tremendous growth and opportunity,” said Robert Reed, Chairman of the Tweed-New Haven Airport Authority. “I am grateful that over the next months he will continue to lend his experience, wisdom, and steady hand to the airport. Tom’s integrity, collaborative spirit, and deep commitment to this community have positioned Tweed for long-term success, and I know that his work will be a driving force in keeping our momentum strong and ensuring even greater growth in the years ahead.”
“Tom’s contributions have shaped and provided a strong foundation to the success of our airport for generations to come,” said Michael Jones, CEO of The New HVN. “Tom and I came to the airport around the same time, and I have been lucky to be able to lean on his wealth of knowledge, steady hand, and passion for aviation through a period of remarkable growth at HVN. I will miss having him here at HVN, yet on behalf of the entire Tweed-New Haven Airport team, we are deeply grateful for his service and wish him the very best as he begins his next chapter.”
The Authority has approved an agreement for Rafter to assist with the transition and onboarding of his successor, ensuring continuity in operations and oversight.
The Executive Director role is now open for applications. The position will oversee the Authority’s governance, compliance, and strategic partnership with Avports HVN LLC and The New HVN LLC, advancing the airport’s growth and community engagement initiatives. A detailed job description is available at flytweed.com/careers.
