5Q: Iftikhar Ahmad

 / PBN PHOTO/MICHAEL SALERNO
/ PBN PHOTO/MICHAEL SALERNO

1 What is your focus for your first 100 days as head of RIAC (which began Oct. 13)?

My first 100 days will focus on meeting and building a rapport with our stakeholders. It is also my intention to learn more about the operations of the six airports. Most of the interactions will be listening to the ideas of others so I can make better-informed decisions.

2 You had success in increasing service in New Orleans. What do you see here as the opportunity for the same?

I believe the greatest strength of RIAC is its people. They are very competent and dedicated to the mission at hand, which is to connect Rhode Island to the rest of the world in a meaningful way, in a manner that would increase enplanements and connectivity with more nonstops – and that is our collective goal. … We will be reaching out to existing airlines to increase frequency and add new destinations for more connectivity from T.F. Green Airport, but would also welcome airlines that have yet to call Rhode Island home.

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3 Are government subsidies necessary to maintain new service routes? Condor Airlines recently left the Green market after its incentive period ended, citing increased competition in Boston.

From my previous experience, attracting new service, especially international service, and keeping it is a joint effort by the airport, the tourism community and the business community. In the coming weeks, I will be reaching out to both business and tourism leaders to identify ways to build meaningful partnerships. The airport is an important economic asset for the state and its citizens. Good connectivity at good fares not only retains business in the community, it spurs growth of more businesses in the region. We will evaluate the incentives other communities are offering to gauge whether or not they are affecting our competitiveness.

4 What are the priorities in overseas service from Green?

Connectivity to Europe would be a priority in terms of international service.

5 Do you have ideas for how Green can be a better neighbor in Warwick?

Good communications and continued honest discussions will help us continue to be a good neighbor and partner with our host community. I have recently met with Mayor [Scott] Avedisian and have pledged to work with the city. •

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