Kimberly Becker, the president and chief executive of the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, will retire in 2026 after a 40-year career in aviation, she announced Thursday.

Under her tenure, which began in 2017, the airport recovered from the coronavirus pandemic, saw a record-high number of passengers in 2024, built a new Terminal 1 and grew its international reach.

“My decision to retire from the Airport Authority brings to close a challenging, fulfilling, and deeply rewarding 40-year career in the aviation industry,” Becker, 62, said. “Aviation has taken me around the globe and given me the opportunity to make a difference in our community.”

Kimberly Becker with the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, announced her retirement Thursday. (John Gibbins / The San Diego

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