Denver Mayor Mike Johnston named Dave LaPorte to serve as Denver International Airport’s interim chief executive officer, effective Aug. 3.

The announcement follows the retirement of CEO Phil Washington.

LaPorte, who joined the airport in 2012, currently serves as chief operating officer and executive vice president. 

“Denver International Airport is one of the world’s premier airports, and it’s vital that an experienced, steady leader guide the organization during this transition period,” Johnston said in a press statement. “Dave has earned the respect of his colleagues, our airline partners and the aviation industry and I am confident he will lead the airport successfully during the interim.”

As interim CEO, LaPorte will oversee airport operations, strategy and workforce matters.

Prior to joining DIA, LaPorte spent 19 years with Southwest Airlines, including as the airline’s Denver station manager. He studied aviation technology and completed flight school at Western Michigan University.

“Dave has been an integral part of DEN’s success for more than a decade, and I have full confidence in his ability to lead the airport during this transition. He understands our operations, our partners, our people and he brings a steady, experienced hand,” said Phil Washington, the airport’s chief executive officer, in the release. “As I step away, I know DEN will remain focused on delivering for our community and advancing the bold vision we’ve set for the future.”

In April of 2025, LaPorte, along with Washington, was among the nine airport executives who came under fire for pricey round-trip tickets — around $18,000 each to a three-day airport conference in Madrid, Spain, according to an investigation by CBS Denver.

All nine executives reportedly flew either first or business class, and along with hotels, meals, conference costs and ground transportation, the total bill came to about $165,000.

While the Denver Ethics Board cleared the group of any wrongdoing, CBS Denver reported that the board was “appalled” by the amount of money spent.

The city will conduct a nationwide search for Washington’s permanent replacement. The process will include community input in the final stage and require confirmation from the Denver City Council, according to a statement from Johnston’s office.