The National Air Transportation Association (NATA) has appointed Hector Huezo as its new chief operating officer (COO). With over 30 years of experience spanning federal, state and local government service in aviation, transportation, legal affairs and public administration, Huezo brings deep operational insight and a strong advocacy foundation to the association.

“Hector's unmatched blend of legal expertise, operational leadership and dedication to aviation public service positions him as an outstanding addition to the NATA executive team,” says NATA president and CEO Curt Castagna. “His proven ability to build high-performing teams, navigate complex regulatory landscapes and forge strategic partnerships with federal agencies will be instrumental in advancing our mission to advocate for the aviation business community.”

Huezo most recently served as assistant general counsel in the Airport Division of the City of Los Angeles Office of the City Attorney, where he managed a team of 30 members and nearly 30 outside counsel contracts supporting legal operations for Los Angeles World Airports and advising on a broad spectrum of regulatory, transactional and litigation matters. Prior to that, he spent 15 years at the US Department of Transportation (USDOT), serving in senior roles within the Office of the Secretary, the Office of the Under Secretary for Policy and the Office of General Counsel. His USDOT service included leadership in multimodal transportation finance programmes, civil rights law, ethics oversight and grants administration, earning him more than a dozen secretary-level and general counsel awards.

Throughout his career, Huezo has maintained a steadfast focus on aviation issues, from airport operations and revenue management at Van Nuys, Long Beach, Palm Springs, Ontario International and Los Angeles International Airports, to federal regulatory oversight and strategic infrastructure policy. His background also includes direct engagement with the FAA, TSA and USDOT on matters impacting aviation safety, innovation and security.

“I am honoured to join NATA and contribute to the vital work of supporting and advancing the aviation businesses that serve as the backbone of America's air transportation system,” he states. “I look forward to working with the NATA team, members and partners in leading with integrity, purpose and impact.”