Newport News-Williamsburg Airport executive director fired

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. (WAVY) — The Peninsula Airport Commission has fired the executive director of Newport News-WIlliamsburg Airport.

In a four-to-one vote Monday, the commission decided to terminate its relationship with Airport Executive Michael Giardino, who has been in the position since 2017.

10 On Your Side is working to learn what led up to his firing. Documents released following Monday’s meeting stated the responsibilities of the executive director involved “overseeing and continuing the growth and development of the PAC and the Newport News-Williamsburg
International Airport,” and that his duties and responsibilities include “meeting the performance standards established annually by the PAC.”

PAC chairwoman Lindsey Smith provided this statement:

“The Peninsula Airport Commission has decided to end its relationship with Mike Giardino as the Executive Director of Newport News-Williamsburg International Airport. Mr. Giardino’s service over the previous five years is appreciated. The Peninsula Airport Commission is focused on helping to facilitate the success of our existing commercial air service providers and our General Aviation and commercial hangar tenants, and their maximized, most efficient use, of the Airport.

“Additionally, the Peninsula Airport Commission’s growth and development objective is a top priority. Guiding our focus on retention and successfully achieving the Peninsula Airport Commission’s objective of qualitative and quantitative improvement will be best achieved under different management. The Airport personnel and the Commission look forward to continuing high quality and ‘easy going’ service to our communities for all business and leisure travel needs.”