Thomas Hendricks Succeeds James Coyne In The Associations' Top Spot

The NATA Board of Directors has selected of Thomas L. Hendricks as the association's new president. He succeeds James K. Coyne, who has served as NATA's president since 1994. Hendricks will start his duties on September 1, 2012.

Hendricks (pictured) most recently served as the senior vice president, safety, security and operations for Airlines for America, where he was responsible for all core airline technical and operational functions. He was also responsible for developing and shaping advocacy and policy positions on flight operations, safety, engineering, air traffic management and security.

"I am pleased to be joining NATA at such a critical time in aviation," said Hendricks. "Aviation drives our global economy, and I understand well the issues and opportunities we face. I look forward to working with NATA members and other stakeholder groups to continue improving an environment that puts safety first and enables general aviation to play a critical role in delivering service, creating jobs and facilitating commercial growth."

"We are proud to add Tom Hendricks to our team and to have him lead NATA," said Jim Sweeney, NATA chairman. "Tom brings a wealth of aviation experience and knowledge to the National Air Transportation Association. His experience and success with driving policy and advocacy programs will bring the visibility that NATA needs to grow and to continue to be a strong influence in the aviation industry."

"I am pleased that the board has chosen someone of Tom's caliber to take the reins at NATA. I look forward to working with him as he transitions into his new role," Coyne said.

Hendricks previously worked with Delta Air Lines as director of line operations and a chief pilot for flight operations in Atlanta, Georgia. During that time, Hendricks represented Delta on several key industry groups. Hendricks has also testified frequently before U.S. Senate and U.S. House of Representatives subcommittees on safety, security and aviation operations.

A retired Air Force Reserve colonel and career fighter pilot, Hendricks served on active duty as a United States Navy officer on the USS Midway (CV-41) and as an instructor pilot at the United States Navy Fighter Weapons School. A native of Fairfield, Ohio, Hendricks graduated from The Citadel in Charleston, South Carolina, with a Bachelor of Arts in Mathematics with secondary emphasis in Business Administration.

FMI: www.nata.aero