Retirement on Hold for Tweed New Haven Airport's New Executive Director

Less than six weeks ago, Tom Rafter was looking forward to retirement.  Then the manager of Nantucket Memorial Airport nearing the end of a 10-year run following three decades at Atlantic City International Airport, Rafter told the Nantucket Current he would be moving to his home in Florida, which he bought two years ago in the Fort Myers area.

Then, Tweed New Haven came calling.  And just before Christmas, the fast-growing Connecticut airport announced it had landed a new leader – Tom Rafter.  As the saying goes, a funny thing happened on the way to retirement.

“At a time of significant growth and progress, we’re confident that Tom will be an excellent leader for Tweed New Haven Airport, continuing the transformational work done under Sean Scanlon,” said John Picard, chairman of the Tweed New Haven Airport Authority.

“Tom brings with him not only significant and comprehensive aviation industry experience, but also a vision and passion that will be critical for a vibrant emergent airport. We’re excited for Tom to get to work.”

Scanlon, the second consecutive state legislator to lead Tweed, was elected Connecticut State Comptroller in November and takes the oath of office in the new job on January 4.

This time, Tweed New Haven’s Board went outside the state for an experienced hand, amidst growth driven by Avelo Airlines, which has dramatically expanded flights in and out of New Haven, with attractive destinations in more than a dozen markets across the country, building on its initial Florida destinations.

Rafter brings three decades of aviation industry experience, including as the leader of regional airports during periods of growth amidst a changing industry.

Looking back at his decade in Nantucket, Rafter told the Current that ramp rehabilitation, buying new equipment, PS systems, and upgrading infrastructure to better suit the larger aircraft coming to and from the island in the summertime are among the things, along with improving the airport’s fiscal stability, he is most proud of. He also referenced the rehabilitation of Taxiway Echo, the airport’s main taxiway as one project he is very happy he, along with his staff, were able to get completed while having the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) cover 100 percent of the $20 million cost.

“I’m delighted to join Tweed New Haven Airport in this role, and I plan to hit to ground running to help continue the exciting changes taking place at the airport,” said Rafter. “It’s clear that Southern Connecticut wants and deserves a modern, convenient airport, and I plan to work closely Avelo Airlines, our operator Avports, and our neighboring community members to help deliver flyers a top-notch experience.”