Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) announced today the appointment of Chris McLaughlin as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective May 19, 2025. The selection follows a comprehensive global search. McLaughlin will succeed current CEO Sean Donohue, who is retiring after more than a decade in the role.
McLaughlin brings extensive leadership experience from both the public and private sectors, with a track record in strategic vision, transportation and infrastructure solutions, technological innovation, and stakeholder partnerships. These qualities align with DFW’s global position and future growth plans.
“I am honored to have been selected by the DFW Airport Board to serve as DFW’s next CEO,” said McLaughlin. He emphasized DFW's history, global recognition, and critical regional role, adding, “Working together with our Board, our employees, the community and our stakeholders, we’ll continue to transform travel for our region and the world.”
Since 2021, McLaughlin has served as DFW’s Executive Vice President of Operations, overseeing the airport’s largest division. His previous experience includes serving as Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer at Denver International Airport and leading the TSA’s Office of Security Operations, where he was instrumental in establishing the TSA PreCheck program. He also held positions with Air Wisconsin Airlines and Frontier Airlines.
The DFW Airport Board of Directors unanimously approved McLaughlin’s appointment.
Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson welcomed McLaughlin, highlighting DFW’s importance to the city’s economy and global connections. Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker echoed this sentiment, emphasizing DFW’s role as an economic driver for North Texas.
DFW Airport Board Chair DeMetris Sampson praised McLaughlin as a “forward-thinking, inclusive leader” with the understanding to guide DFW through its future expansion and community impact.
Outgoing CEO Sean Donohue expressed confidence in McLaughlin, noting his experience and expertise to lead DFW during a period of significant transformation.
Under McLaughlin’s leadership, DFW will continue its multi-billion-dollar capital improvement program, advance sustainability efforts, expand global connections, and enhance the travel experience for its nearly 90 million annual customers.
