Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) CEO Sean Donohue has announced his retirement, marking the end of a distinguished 40-year career in the aviation industry. Donohue, who has been at the helm of DFW since 2013, will continue to serve until his successor is appointed, with the DFW Board of Directors initiating a global search for his replacement.
In his statement, Donohue expressed both gratitude and reflection on his time leading DFW, saying, “It’s with mixed emotions that I have decided the time has come to pass the torch at DFW and begin a new chapter in my life, after four decades of service to the aviation industry.” He highlighted the strong relationship between DFW and North Texas, adding, "In many ways, the story of DFW and North Texas are the same, having grown and supported one another for 50 years."
Donohue’s leadership oversaw significant milestones for DFW, which has now become the third-busiest airport in the world. Under his guidance, DFW became the world’s largest and North America’s first carbon-neutral airport and is on track to achieve net-zero carbon emissions before 2030. DFW also recorded nearly 87 million passengers in fiscal year 2024, a 19% increase compared to 2019, making it a key hub for global travel.
In addition to these environmental and operational achievements, Donohue steered DFW through the challenges posed by the global COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the massive downturn in travel, DFW avoided furloughing employees and quickly rebounded, positioning itself as one of the first airports to recover in passenger and cargo traffic. Today, DFW generates more than $38 billion in annual payroll, supports 634,000 jobs, and contributes $5 billion annually in local and state taxes.
Dallas Mayor Eric L. Johnson commended Donohue’s leadership, saying, "DFW Airport is known among the best in the aviation industry, and that reputation has been earned in no small part due to the steadfast leadership of CEO Sean Donohue."
Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker added, “His dedication has left a lasting impact on Fort Worth, North Texas, and the airport itself. I thank him for his outstanding service and wish him the very best in his well-deserved retirement.”
During his tenure, Donohue also finalized a historic 10-year use and lease agreement with airlines serving DFW, setting the stage for a $9 billion capital improvement plan. This plan includes the reimagining of Terminal C, the construction of a new Terminal F, and other infrastructure improvements, ensuring the airport’s continued growth and operational efficiency for decades to come.
Before joining DFW, Donohue held executive roles at Virgin Australia Airlines and United Airlines, capping off a 29-year career in the airline sector. He is globally recognized for his contributions to aviation and co-chairs the Aviation and Aerospace Committee for the World Economic Forum.
Donohue plans to remain in his role until his successor is named and will support the transition. The DFW Board of Directors, led by Chair DeMetris Sampson, praised his leadership, noting, “Sean’s legacy will be felt for decades to come, and the Board wishes him the best in his well-earned retirement.”
