Oakland, Calif. – June 28, 2024: The Port of Oakland names Craig Simon as the Port’s new Director of Aviation, leading San Francisco Bay Oakland International Airport (OAK). Mr. Simon takes the helm at a critical time when the airport will be making many improvements to OAK’s business and facilities.

“I am committed to leading OAK during this pivotal time of improvement and development for the benefit of our San Francisco Bay region,” says Port of Oakland Director of Aviation Craig Simon. “I would like to thank Port leadership for entrusting me with the great honor of taking our OAK team to new heights.”

The airport has embarked on a number of efforts to improve passenger experience at OAK, including upgrading the Terminal 1 check-in lobby, restroom facilities, and providing new, local concessions and restaurants. The Port’s proposed Terminal Modernization and Development Project is currently in its environmental review phase, with a Final Environmental Impact Report expected to be published later this year.

Mr. Simon joined OAK in December 2012 as an Airside Operations Superintendent. In 2020, he was appointed as an Assistant Director of Aviation, responsible for overseeing all airport operations and compliance functions. He was appointed Interim Director of Aviation in July of 2023.

Mr. Simon holds a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Operations and Aviation Maintenance Management from San Jose State University. He is also an Airport Certified Employee in both Airfield Operations and Airfield Lighting Maintenance through the American Association of Airport Executives, as well as being an instrument-rated private pilot. He began his career in aviation at San Jose International Airport in 2001 as a Senior Airport Operations Specialist, performing airfield inspections of taxiways and active runways. He worked his way up to the role of Airport Operations Superintendent, Airside.