Scott Gray leaving as Scottsdale Airport director
By Curtis Riggs | July 29, 2009
Airport Strategic Business Plan still in works
SCOTTSDALE – Airport Director Scott Gray is rejoining the aviation private sector as the Airport Advisory Commission is about to render a recommendation on the Scottsdale Strategic Business Plan, which includes an increase in the weight of planes, to the Scottsdale City Council for a final decision this fall.
Gray, who has worked at the city-owned airport since 2000, is resigning to become an aviation consultant in Pennsylvania.
Gray became prominent at the Scottsdale Airport in 2000 when many Scottsdale and Desert Foothills residents opposed the Northwest 2000 rerouting plan, which would have shifted Phoenix Sky Harbor flight paths over Cave Creek and Carefree had there not been such intense local opposition.
DeChance said Gray worked in the private aviation sector until he joined Scottsdale airport staff where he "worked his way up through the ranks."
She stated the airport will be in capable hands as Harold Stewart, the managing executive director of the city's Economic Vitality Department, and Kim Hanna, assistant aviation director at the airport, assume leadership roles.
A citizen survey about the business plan indicates most of the 300 residents who responded support keeping airport operations as they are. DeChance admits there is considerable support for Option 2 as well, which would increase the weight limit.
Citizens can take the survey at www.scottsdaleaz.gov/airport/airportsbp.