John Boatright

PEOPLE IN THE NEWS

Airport Development Project Officer John Boatright
By DeAllous Smith

On May 16, as crowds gathered to witness a commemorative celebration to commission the opening of Runway 10-28 at the world’s busiest airport, a smile as bright as the early morning sun peering over Atlanta skies beamed from the face of Project Officer John Boatright.

After a 31-year career at Delta Air Lines, the retired executive was tapped by Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport in 2003 to oversee the runway construction project.

Under a three and a half year contract, he would serve as the airport’s lead consultant for the $6.2 billion Capital Improvement Program. Runway 10-28, the centerpiece of the airport’s construction program, is often referred to as “The Most Important Runway in America.”

Almost immediately, Boatright and Aviation General Manager Ben DeCosta worked collaboratively to garner the approval and support of the aviation community required to ensure the runway’s successful completion.

The message was simple: Runway 10-28 would save the airlines operating out of Hartsfield-Jackson industry $5 million per week and cut delays by 50 percent. And, in order for the airport to remain a convenient transportation option for travelers and air carriers the runway had to be built.

“Hartsfield-Jackson drives our regional economy; therefore, it was important that the city invested in its infrastructure,” added Boatright. “The airport allows individuals to come here today and travel to the other side of the world to conduct business in-person. As the world becomes smaller [Hartsfield-Jackson] will become even more important to the region.”

Boatright’s proudest moments during his tenure included overseeing a diverse workforce, a stellar safety record and completing the runway $100 million under budget and on time.

Aviation officials were progressive in their efforts to promote inclusiveness and encourage small, female and minority owned businesses to participate in the growth and development of the world’s busiest airport.

The runway project included people from every part of the world and exceeded diversity participation goals. Today, 36.5 percent of the more than $1.7 billion paid to businesses has gone to small, female and minority-owned companies. The original benchmark was set at 35.5 percent participation.

“People are the most important asset of any organization and people make the team successful,” added Boatright. “The team collaborating on this project is second to none. It was truly a pleasure to work with a team that was as diverse as the program has become. The amalgamation of talent made this program successful.”

With the successful completion of Runway 10-28, Boatright anticipates leaving Hartsfield-Jackson when his contract expires this summer.

The Swainsboro, Ga. native will take 34 years of aviation related experience with him during his departure. Boatright began his career at Delta as a cargo service agent and eventually retired as the Vice President of Corporate Real Estate.

“It’s true that once jet fuel gets into your veins you are instantly connected to the industry, however being a grandpa is also a fantastic opportunity.”

He is married to Karen Boatright and they have four sons, three granddaughters and another granddaughter on the way.

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