Press Room

Posted on: Tue, 08/23/2016 - 09:19

Ontario, Calif.- August 23, 2016 — Continuing to build a world-class management team, the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA) today announced the hiring of aviation veteran Bruce E. Atlas as its Chief Operating Officer.

The OIAA, a joint powers agency formed by the City of Ontario and the County of San Bernardino, is on track to assume ownership and control of Ontario International Airport (ONT) in the fourth quarter of 2016, subject to final Federal Aviation Administration approval.

Atlas has nearly two decades of aviation experience, most recently as Southwest Airlines’ station manager at ONT. In that role prior to announcing his retirement from the airline this month, he oversaw all of the carrier’s activities at the airport, including finance, budget, administration, commercial and employee development, operations maintenance and environmental responsibilities. “Bruce Atlas is dedicated, dependable and has a proven track record of leadership with hands-on experience,” said OIAA President and Ontario City Councilman Alan D. Wapner. “His exceptionally diverse experience in all areas of aviation management, and his unrelenting passion for customer service, position him for tremendous success in his critical role with OIAA.”

OIAA Chief Executive Officer Kelly J. Fredericks, P.E., A.A.E. added, “I am delighted to have Bruce joining the OIAA team as our first Chief Operating Officer. Bruce will oversee the day to day operations of ONT, and his long history with Southwest Airlines and their customer focused culture, combined with an amazing understanding of ONT’s strengths and weaknesses, makes Bruce the ideal person to lead us in providing customer friendly services and facilities.

Atlas has served in a variety of positions with Southwest Airlines since 1998. Under his leadership, the carrier’s Ontario operation was recognized as the “Top Performing Station” in 2009 and 2014, and “Top Performing Station in Cargo” in 2007.

“It is truly a great honor and exciting privilege to serve as chief operating officer for the OIAA,” Atlas said. “I look forward to working with this dynamic leadership team that will ensure the Ontario International Airport exceeds the high expectations of the communities it serves.”

During his previous position as assistant station manager for ramp and operations at Los Angeles International Airport, Southwest won the company’s “Station of the Year” award in 2004.

Prior to joining Southwest, Atlas served as general manager of First Class Limousine Service in Los Angeles.

Atlas also has a strong commitment to supporting the communities where he lives and works through a wide range of volunteer activities. He has served as president of the Marcus Heart Foundation; chairman of the Inland Empire Regional Chamber of Commerce; and on the board of directors of the Travelers Aid of the Inland Empire, the Baldy View Regional Occupation Program, and the Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Loma Linda.

In his work with RMHC, he coordinated with television producer Ty Pennington of “Extreme Home Makeover” to provide much-needed flooring and insulation improvements to the charity’s Loma Linda House. This resulted in Mr. Pennington donating his services to all RMCH charities nationwide.

A father of six and grandfather of two, Atlas lives with his wife in Riverside County.

Last week, the OIAA named Jeff Reynolds for the key position of Chief Financial Officer. He has extensive experience in U.S. and international airport management, finance, concessions, business development, reporting and underwriting.