CEO Message Overview Environment Social Governance Index
A Message from Our President and CEO
Air travel is a growing and increasingly important part of the global economy and our everyday lives . In 2023 , the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority witnessed unprecedented numbers of travelers and passengers arriving from every corner of the world . As we all recover from the setbacks of the COVID pandemic , our employees and business partners have aggressively focused on improvements and innovations to meet the challenges of an increasingly complex aviation industry .
Our commitment to innovation and providing top-quality transportation services and facilities was illustrated in 2023 by initiatives that include launching construction of a major solar energy facility at Washington Dulles International Airport and adding new concessions , lounges and other passenger amenities throughout our two-airport system . In addition , we revitalized Reagan National Airport ’ s concourses and terminals and rehabilitated its aging main runway , which is the busiest in America . To further expand travel opportunities for the people of the National Capital Region , we welcomed nine new airlines and inaugurated 18 new air routes , bringing our two-airport system to more than 40 airlines and nearly 200 destinations across the country and around the world .
Less than one year after opening the Dulles Airport station on the regional Metrorail public transit system ’ s Silver Line , which was built by the Airports Authority , we welcomed the station ’ s 1-millionth passenger . In addition to giving passengers and employees another efficient , convenient and economical way to reach the airport , the Silver Line is helping to ease traffic congestion , help the environment by reducing emissions and spur economic development .
Environmental risks present our industry with challenges involving air emissions , energy efficiency , water quality and waste management . Addressing these growing concerns requires collaboration among everyone in our airport communities , including airlines , construction contractors , concessionaires , suppliers , service providers , passengers and employees . In this regard , we strengthened our sustainability programs , which focus on ensuring that our policies and practices keep our environmental performance as a key priority across our airport community , including a Green Concessions Program to promote sustainable practices among our airport shops and restaurants .
The Airports Authority is also focused on recruiting and developing a highly skilled and diverse staff to serve our customers and ensure a top-quality workforce for the future . Our employees are our most valuable asset , and our leadership is dedicated to continuous improvement . In 2023 , we introduced psychological safety training for employees along with a broad spectrum of training classes in multiple subject areas . We also expanded our various training , apprenticeship and professional development programs and employment outreach initiatives such as our Workforce Development Expos , which introduced more than 350 high-school students to potential career paths in the aviation industry .
Community engagement is another key priority for the Airports Authority . During 2023 , we sponsored a number of philanthropic and employee-volunteer activities that included partnerships with area schools , donations of over 7,500 items to schools , shelters and other non-profit organizations , and sponsorship of programs and events to benefit charitable causes , highlighted by our annual Dulles Day and Plane Pull festival , which raised more than $ 500,000 for Special Olympics Virginia .
Our corporate governance philosophy centers on a commitment to ethical leadership , sound financial management , good corporate citizenship , operational excellence , safety and transparency . Ethical leadership is the cornerstone of our decision-making process , ensuring our actions align with the highest standards of integrity and responsibility . We prioritize data protection , recognizing the critical importance of safeguarding sensitive information and upholding the trust placed in us by our stakeholders . Our robust financial standing is attributed to prudent and careful financial management . Our core values of integrity , mutual respect , collaboration and pride guide everything we do .
Looking ahead , the Airports Authority is leveraging its standing as a leader in customer service , sustainability , community collaboration and governance . We hope this report provides new insights on our performance , accomplishments , values and contributions to the communities we serve , as we strive to provide a world-class airport experience for the people of America ’ s National Capital Region and beyond .
Sincerely ,
John E . Potter President and Chief Executive Officer
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