Rosemary Vassiliadis, who has served as the Director of Clark County’s airport system since 2013, has officially announced her retirement. Effective September 12, this marks the end of nearly three decades of service within the airport system.
Vassiliadis, who was the system’s first woman director, expressed her pride in the achievements and partnerships fostered during her tenure. “Serving our community has been the honor of a lifetime,” she stated, reflecting on her time in leadership roles, which also included 16 years as deputy director.
Currently, the airport system employs about 18,000 people and oversees five airports, including four general aviation facilities that cater to flight schools, private jets, and recreational activities.
Harry Reid Airport, the flagship of the system, has consistently ranked among the busiest airports in the world. In 2024, it was designated as the fifth busiest globally in terms of aircraft movements, with over 613,973 landings and takeoffs recorded, marking an 11% increase compared to 2019. The airport also accommodated 58.5 million passengers, securing its position as the eighth busiest in the United States.
During her tenure, Vassiliadis championed numerous initiatives, including plans for significant upgrades at Harry Reid Airport. Late last year, a concept to add 26 new gates to Terminal 1 was presented to the Clark County Commission, though no specific timeline for completion has been outlined. This modernization effort aims to replace the outdated satellite gate layout with a more efficient design.
Furthermore, the long-anticipated construction of a supplemental reliever airport, located approximately 30 miles south and west of Reid Airport, is set to advance. Despite the introduction of this new facility expected in 2037, Reid Airport will retain its role as the primary gateway for Southern Nevada’s mega-events, conventions, and sporting activities.
Vassiliadis highlighted the strategic position of the airport system, emphasizing its capability to continue serving as the main access point for travelers to Southern Nevada.
Among her notable achievements, Vassiliadis oversaw the airport’s designation as the nation’s only Innovation Airport by the TSA in 2019. This designation turned the airport into a testing ground for new screening technologies, including automated screening lanes with computed tomography scanners, an integrated UV-C light sanitization system, credential authentication units, and advanced digital signage.
Additionally, Vassiliadis took steps to combat human trafficking at the airport, implementing staff training for victim identification and collaborating with law enforcement for safe exit strategies.
Under her guidance, the airport was also one of the first to install multilingual signage in all restrooms to better accommodate international travelers. Vassiliadis’s leadership was particularly crucial in the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks when she assisted the airport through extensive security transformations.
Her stewardship continued through the challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, ensuring the airport remained operational and safe for travelers.
As Vassiliadis prepares for her departure, the search for a new director of aviation will be vital for managing ongoing improvements and the future of Southern Nevada’s airport infrastructure.
image source from：travelweekly
