New Bedford Regional Airport's Director is stepping down at the end of the month. Erick D'Leon says he has accepted a position in Georgia with a Florida-based airport management firm where he was previously employed.

D'Leon has been with the New Bedford Regional Airport for nearly three years, and tells WBSM News the airport has reached milestones during his tenure. "Jet count this year has been 25% higher than it was last year. July was an all-time record that we had since we've been keeping track. 170 jets during the month of July," said D'Leon. "So we've seen a lot of statistical increases across the board. It's been much, much busier in recent years."

D'Leon oversaw the completion of the airport's runway reconstruction projects, totaling nearly $17 million. He says the airport is in talks with numerous carriers to increase service on several fronts included extended flights to Florida and a more efficient car rental service.

D'Leon says he's going to miss working with the team at the New Bedford Regional Airport. "We work really hard but we have a lot of fun. It's a great group to work with. The commissioners have been fantastic with everything I've done. [There's been] A lot support from the City. The Mayor's office has been fantastic." When pressed on what else he's going to miss, D'Leon said, "The summers. Those going to be tough to miss down in the southern heat."

A job posting for the position being vacated by D'Leon will soon be posted on the City's website, with the Airport Commission reviewing candidates and later making recommendations to Mayor Jon Mitchell.

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