Gregory B. Kelly, A.A.E., Executive Director at the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport, was awarded the American Association of Airport Executives’ (AAAE) Distinguished Service Award recently at a meeting of the Savannah Airport Commission. The award is presented to airport executives like Greg Kelly in honor of an exemplary career and contributions to the airport industry. Greg has a daughter attending Georgia Southern and has been a huge supporter of Georgia Southern and the Statesboro Community.
“Throughout his distinguished career, Greg Kelly has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to advancing the airport profession and to serving others at the local, state, regional, and national levels,” said AAAE First Past Chair Tory Richardson, A.A.E., President & Chief Executive Officer of the Gerald R. Ford International Airport. “Greg has left a positive, indelible mark on our industry, and it is fitting that AAAE is honoring him for his dedication and significant career achievements.”
The Distinguished Service Award is one of AAAE’s highest levels of recognition. Individuals receive the award as a mark of accomplishments in their professional and personal lives. Respected leaders of their own communities, these individuals also contribute to other aviation organizations, serve AAAE and its chapters, and participate in civic and community affairs. Distinguished Service Award winners exemplify the best in airport management by continually bringing credit to the profession and the aviation community. All DSA winners are Accredited Airport Executives (A.A.E.) and exemplify the standards accreditation seeks to inspire.
Kelly has been active in many aspects of AAAE over the years, including service on the Board of Directors and as President of the Southeast Chapter. He has also served on the Airports Council International Board of Directors and U.S. Policy Committee. His interest in and concern for the safety and well-being of the greater airport industry can be seen in his service as a primary coordinator for the Southeast Airports Disaster Operations Group, known as SEADOG. This organization stands ready to assist airports in times of natural disasters.
Greg Kelly began his career with the Savannah Airport Commission in August 1989. In addition to his service as Past President of the Southeast Chapter of AAAE, he is a Past President of the Georgia Airports Association and of the Savannah Aviation Association. He is a Past Chair of the Savannah Area Tourism Leadership Council and serves on the Board of Directors for the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, the Savannah Chamber of Commerce, Visit Savannah, and the Board of Advisors for the Georgia Tech – Savannah Chapter. He is a graduate of Leadership Savannah, a recipient of Savannah Community STAR Award, and a member of the Rotary Club of Savannah and the Propeller Club. He is an Accredited Airport Executive and a Private Pilot.
