June 7, 2007
The Houston Airport System (HAS) appointed Brian Rinehart, airport manager of Ellington Field (EFD). An HAS employee since 1995, he recently served as assistant manager of Bush Intercontinental Airport. Rinehart will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the aviation complex at Ellington Field.
“All of us at the Houston Airport System congratulate Brian Rinehart on his new position,’ said Rick Vacar, director of aviation. “Ellington’s unique mixture of tenants will appreciate his abilities and long record of leadership. His extensive military experience adds to his qualifications to manage this important commercial and strategic asset.”
Rinehart received a BA of Aviation Management and a BS of Aviation Science with Magna Cum Laude recognition from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University. He served at the Pentagon as a Defense Systems Coordinator. He retired as a Lieutenant Colonel, Master Aviator after 26 years of service.
Mr. Rinehart is also a decorated serviceman, who has earned the Silver Star, the Bronze Star with Oak Leaf Cluster, the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Purple Heart, 4 Air Medals for Valor and 38 Air Medals for aerial operations in combat zones. He first joined the United States Army after graduating from Farmington High School in Farmington, New Mexico, in 1965. He served two combat tours flying assault helicopters.
EFD is a joint-use civil/military airport supporting military NASA and general aviation tenants. EFD hosts the annual Wings Over Houston Air Show.
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The Houston Airport System served 51 million passengers in 2006. It is the 4th-largest multi-airport system in the U.S. and the 6th-largest in the world. Bush Intercontinental is the nation’s 9th-busiest airport. According to J.D. Powers & Associates, William P. Hobby Airport is first in customer satisfaction among smaller airports in the United States. HAS annually contributes over $24 billion in positive economic impact to the Greater Houston region. For more information watch Houston Airports Today every Saturday at 9:00 am on KTBU Channel 55 or visit www.fly2houston.com. | 
