Boise Welcomes New Airport Director

Mayor Lauren McLean has selected Beth Sumner to lead the city’s airport as the new Airport Director. Beth has worked at the Boise Airport as the Deputy Director of Engineering & Planning since 2023.

“Beth has demonstrated an unmatched commitment to the growth of Boise’s Airport, leading important projects as we undergo an incredible expansion,” said Mayor Lauren McLean. “I look forward to her insights and leadership for years to come.” 

Director Sumner has played a key role in directing engineering and planning for the $1.4 billion BOI Upgrade program during a period of record passenger growth. She also leads the airport’s federal funding strategy, contributing to more than $100 million in competitive and discretionary awards, and represents the capital program on the Airport Airline Affairs Committee.  

“I'm honored and excited to serve as the next Boise Airport Director and grateful to Mayor McLean for her confidence in me,” said Director Sumner. “As Boise and the surrounding region continue to grow, I look forward to building on the Airport's strong foundation and working alongside our talented team, fellow City leaders, and community partners to support the economic vitality of Boise and the Treasure Valley.” 

She previously served as senior executive for installation operations at Gowen Field — the military side of Boise Airport’s joint civil-military airfield — and as Deputy Director of the 124th Fighter Wing, a 1,100-person Aviation Enterprise. Beth served for 26 years in the United States Air Force & Air National Guard, with three overseas deployments during that time. She has a bachelor's degree in engineering sciences from the United States Air Force Academy, where she graduated with military distinction, and a Master of Science in Materials Science and Engineering from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. In her free time, Beth enjoys hiking and mountain biking in the foothills.   

Sumner will begin as Boise Airport’s Director upon confirmation by City Council during their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, November 10. All City Council meetings are open to the public and livestreamed on the city’s YouTube channel. 

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