Duluth Airport Authority Announces Promotion of New Director of Operations, Planning & Construction
Duluth Airport Authority Announces Promotion of the New Director of Operations, Planning, and Construction
Duluth, MN – The Duluth Airport Authority is pleased to announce the promotion of Ryan Welch to the position of Director of Operations, Planning and Construction, on July 31, 2025.
In this role, Welch will oversee all aspects of airport operations, capital improvement planning, and construction management at Duluth International Airport (DLH) and Duluth Sky Harbor Airport (DYT). He brings 13 years of experience in aviation and infrastructure development, including most recently, three years as the Duluth Airport Authority’s Airside Manager. Additionally, Welch served in the United States Army Reserve for 32 years, completing multiple mobilizations and overseas deployments before retiring as a Brigade Command Sergeant Major in 2023.
“Ryan is an incredibly strong leader. He has left an indelible mark on the airport in key roles over the past 13 years.” said Tom Werner, Executive Director of the Duluth Airport Authority. “Ryan will do an amazing job managing the airport’s infrastructure and setting the conditions of the operations department’s success in the future.”
This promotion supports the Airport Authority’s long-term strategic vision to enhance regional connectivity, improve infrastructure, and deliver a world-class passenger experience.
###
About the Duluth International Airport
Starting June 1, United Airlines will offer four daily nonstop flights to Chicago and Delta offers four daily nonstop flights to Minneapolis/St. Paul. We are committed to providing our travelers with superior services in a safe, secure and professional environment. Be sure to visit our Club DLH Business Suite, designed with the working traveler in mind. Visit duluthairport.com.
