San Diego Airport Taps Philadelphia CEO to Lead $3.8 Billion Transformation

The San Diego County Regional Airport Authority has concluded its national search. It officially named Atif Saeed as its next President and Chief Executive Officer. Saeed will take the reins on March 11, 2026, succeeding the retiring Kimberly Becker. Becker is stepping down after a 40-year aviation career.

Saeed transitions to San Diego from the City of Philadelphia Department of Aviation. There he served as CEO, overseeing both Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and Northeast Philadelphia Airport (PNE).

A New Era for San Diego International

Saeed’s tenure begins at a critical time. San Diego International Airport (SAN) is undertaking massive capital improvement initiatives. The most notable is the $3.8 billion Terminal 1 redevelopment program.

This major project is officially known as the New T1 program. It aims to modernize the outdated facility. The first phase, which includes 19 new gates, is expected to open in late summer 2025. The full project is scheduled for completion in early 2028. It will ultimately feature 30 gates in total.

Airport officials project the New T1 program will significantly boost the local economy. It is expected to generate over $4.5 billion in economic activity. The project is also forecast to create more than 25,000 jobs.

SAN is one of the busiest single-runway commercial service airports globally. Saeed’s leadership will focus on navigating this complex expansion. The goal is to enhance passenger experience and capacity. The airport currently serves 11 nonstop international routes. These connect San Diego to Europe, South America, and Asia.

Experience in Major Airport Overhauls

Saeed brings a strong background in managing large-scale airport improvements. At the Philadelphia Department of Aviation, he oversaw a $500 million upgrade at PHL.

This extensive program included nearly 50 individual projects. These focused on improving the passenger environment. Key upgrades included restroom renovations and new seating with integrated charging devices. The improvements were timed to prepare the airport for major events in 2026. These events include the FIFA World Cup and the US 250th Anniversary.

Prior to his role in Philadelphia, Saeed held leadership positions at other major US hubs. His experience includes work at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP), and Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX).

Leadership Transition Details

Saeed holds an MBA from Arizona State University. He is also an Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.). In a statement, Saeed expressed his honor in being selected. He noted the airport’s vital role in the region's economy.

Gil Cabrera, Chair of the Airport Authority Board of Directors, welcomed Saeed. He also extended gratitude to the outgoing CEO. Kimberly Becker’s total compensation in 2024 was reported at over $725,000. This included wages and benefits. Details of Saeed’s financial compensation package were not immediately disclosed.

• Saeed will assume leadership of the $3.8 billion New T1 program at SAN.
• The first phase of the New T1, featuring 19 gates, is scheduled to open in late summer 2025.
• Saeed previously managed a $500 million upgrade program at PHL.
• He succeeds Kimberly Becker, who is retiring after a 40-year career.

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