The longtime leader of Washington Dulles International Airport and Reagan National Airport plans to retire in early 2027, ending a 15-year tenure that included major airport expansions, the arrival of Metro service at Dulles and the COVID-19 pandemic.
John E. "Jack" Potter, president and CEO of the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority, announced his retirement to the organization's 1,950 employees. He will remain in his position until a successor is selected and a transition is completed.
Potter's departure comes as the airports authority prepares for more than $24 billion in planned construction projects at the region's two major airports.
The authority is planning $2.4 billion in improvements to terminals, roadways and other facilities at Reagan National Airport in Arlington, along with a more than $22 billion program to modernize Dulles International Airport.
The projects are intended to accommodate future growth and improve the passenger experience at both airports.
Potter joined the airports authority in 2011 after a career with the U.S. Postal Service, including 10 years as U.S. postmaster general.
During his tenure, the authority completed several major transportation projects, including the Metrorail Silver Line extension, which brought Metro service to Dulles Airport in 2022.
The authority also completed Project Journey at Reagan National, adding a new concourse and security screening areas.
Other improvements included expanded passenger lounges, upgraded restrooms, additional parking options, improved gate seating and charging stations, and new concessions.
Potter also established the authority's Office of Revenue in 2014 to expand income from sources other than airlines, helping reduce operating costs for carriers serving the airports.
His tenure included significant challenges, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic and the January 2025 midair collision near Reagan National Airport that killed 67 people.
"It has truly been an honor to have had the opportunity to work with such a talented and dedicated group of people focused on the mission of providing the very best airport experience," Potter said in his retirement announcement.
"Together we have faced numerous challenges, which you handled with unfailing dedication to keeping passengers safe and airplanes flying."
The airports authority's board of directors has hired executive search firm Spencer Stuart to find Potter's successor.
Board Chairman Mark Uncapher credited Potter with guiding the organization through major changes while improving the passenger experience and expanding opportunities for employees.
"Jack Potter's extraordinary leadership, strategic vision, personal integrity and resilience in challenging times have created a legacy that places our airports among the most respected in the aviation industry and positions us well for future success," Uncapher said.
The airports authority oversees operations at both Reagan National and Dulles, as well as the Dulles Toll Road.
Potter has agreed to remain CEO until the authority selects a new leader and completes the transition. The authority did not provide a specific retirement date.
Additional information about the airports and their planned improvements is available through the Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority.
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