History

Founded in 1947 as the California Association of Airport Executives (CAAE), the Southwest Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives (SWAAAE) has a long-standing commitment to advancing, promoting, and protecting aviation across the Southwest.

In its early years, CAAE played an important role in supporting the establishment of the State of California Director of Aeronautics and advocating for federal aviation funding through the Federal Aviation Administration. In 1971, the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) invited CAAE to become a regional chapter affiliate. That affiliation was formally approved in 1976, and in 1978, CAAE became SWAAAE, expanding its reach to include California, Arizona, Hawaii, and Nevada.

Throughout its history, SWAAAE has brought aviation professionals together to advance the industry and strengthen the connections that make it thrive. Through its annual conferences, educational programs, and professional events, SWAAAE provides opportunities for aviation leaders and professionals to exchange ideas, explore emerging issues, build lasting relationships, and grow their expertise.

Recognizing that the strength of aviation depends on the people who dedicate their careers to it, SWAAAE has a proud tradition of honoring outstanding contributions to the industry. Its awards include the Airport Executive of the Year, Emerging Leader Award, Lifetime Achievement – Wanamaker Award, Aviation Partner Award, President’s Award, and Aviation Excellence Award.

Looking toward the future, SWAAAE continues to invest in the next generation of aviation professionals. In 2023, SWAAAE supported the formation of the SWAAAE Foundation, which provides scholarships to advance education and professional development within the aviation community.

For more than 75 years, SWAAAE has evolved alongside the aviation industry while remaining committed to the same core mission: bringing people together, supporting professional growth, and advancing aviation throughout the Southwest.

SWAAAE Historical Documents Index
Looking for historical SWAAAE documents such as past conference programs, constitution and by-laws, membership directories or newsletters? Please click here to view the index of available SWAAAE historical documents.