Palm Springs International Airport’s interim executive director, Harry Barrett, will now be the permanent executive director, it was announced Monday. Barrett has served in the interim role since December 2021 when Ulises Aguirre retired.
“Harry Barrett’s knowledge and expertise about the operations and projects ongoing at Palm Springs International Airport make him the right choice to serve as our next executive director,” said City Manager Justin Clifton. “I am thankful we have an experienced airport executive whose proven management skills have kept PSP on an excellent course.”
Barrett currently oversees several projects, including the launch of three new airlines, negotiations with 13 other airlines, and overseeing the $27 million operating budget.
His past projects at the airport include overseeing the $11 million terminal passenger loading bridge replacement project, overseeing logistics between 11 airlines during the airport’s $36 million ticket lobby and TSA expansion, and designing the airport’s COVID-19 response protocol and passenger protection measures.
Barrett began his career in Palm Springs in 2020 as deputy director of operations and maintenance. Before his time in Palm Springs, he served in a variety of roles at different municipal airports in the state of Washington. From 2001-2012 he was lead flight examiner and then aviation management section chief for the United States Air Force.
“Over the past several years, Palm Springs International Airport has continued to grow and flourish as one of the premier airports in Southern California and beyond,” said Barrett. “As we continue to bring new airlines and passengers to the Palm Springs destination, I am honored to take the helm and I look forward to continuing those efforts with the City Manager, Council, Staff and our tourism partners.”
