Ben Humphrey to lead commercial aviation market for TKDA
Ben Humphrey has joined TKDA’s Aviation Division. He brings 30-plus years of aviation experience, largely spent at Delta Air Lines in Minneapolis, to TKDA’s team of aviation professionals.
Ben will lead TKDA’s commercial aviation market after retiring as the Delta Air Lines Vice President of Airport and Customer Service at the Minneapolis-St. Paul International Airport. In that role, he oversaw ground operations of more than 400 domestic and international flights per day, led 1,900 employees, and managed a $180 million operating budget.
He began his career at Delta as a front-line employee, sorting mail on the midnight shift in Washington, D.C. He went on to hold numerous key Delta management positions at many airports across the country, gaining extensive operational, airport, and airline experience dealing with construction projects, flight operations, control centers, customer service, ramp operations, customs and border protection, hub operations, baggage process and handling, and corporate operations.
“While working for Delta at MSP, I was a longtime customer of TKDA and I know this experienced aviation team provides a level of service unmatched in the industry,” he said. “I am very excited to join TKDA as we continue to strengthen our position here in Minnesota and the Midwest, as well as pursue new opportunities across the country.”
As an operational leader, Ben’s focus throughout his career has been in process improvement through data-driven results, cost reductions, and collaborative team building.
He is a relationship builder, and he has worked successfully with diverse stakeholders, including all major airlines and airports, as well as federal, state and local regulators.
“We are very enthusiastic about the depth of aviation experience Ben brings to our firm,” said John Ahern, Vice President of TKDA’s Aviation Division. “His insider’s view of what it takes to streamline, improve, and enhance airport operations will bring valuable insights to our aviation team and our clients. We are happy to have Ben on board as we continue to enhance services for our long-time, existing clients as well as look for new national opportunities.”
Ben has a Bachelor of Science in airway science from the University of North Dakota. He holds a multi-engine commercial pilot’s license and is a former flight instructor.
He currently serves on the board of the Saint Paul Area Chamber of Commerce and is on two advisory councils for Wings Financial Credit Union. At home he is supported by his wife Kate, daughter Lydia, and son Austin. In his free time, he enjoys golf, skiing, boating and hunting.
