Sarasota Bradenton Airport CEO receives honor from FAA
Named region’s airport manager of the year
SARASOTA – Rick Piccolo, president and CEO of Sarasota Manatee Airport Authority, has been named the Air Carrier Airport Manager of the Year by the Federal Aviation Administration’s Southern Region Airports Division this week.
Piccolo, who has worked in his role at the Sarasota Bradenton Airport since 1995, was recognized by the organization as a national leader in aviation management who “exemplifies excellence in airport management, demonstrates exceptional leadership, tirelessly works to promote the aviation industry.”
The award is Piccolo’s second recognition — his first award was received almost two decades ago in 2005.
The Sarasota Bradenton International Airport has grown exponentially under Piccolo’ over the past five years. Since the start of the global pandemic, the growing airport has seen over 300% more traffic and passengers.
The airport’s unprecedented growth includes a passenger increase of 46% over 2021 and 155% over 2020. From 2018 through 2022, SRQ grew from six airlines and 12 nonstop destinations to 11 airlines and 54 nonstop destinations.
In addition, Piccolo has worked to secure FAA, Florida Department of Transportation and state grant funding to offset the costs of expansion projects.
Piccolo also oversaw the payoff of the airport’s bond debt in 2014, allowing the airport to offer lower rates and a variety of high-demand, budget-friendly airlines.
“This is a testament to a supportive board combined with a great team of employees and tenants at the airport who work diligently every day to make our users’ journey safe, secure, and as stress-free as possible, especially during this period of unprecedented growth at SRQ,” Piccolo said.