San Jose Standard

SAN JOSE, Calif. (March 12, 2024) – City Manager Jennifer Maguire has appointed Mukesh (Mookie) Patel as the City’s new Director of Aviation at San José Mineta International Airport (SJC). Patel, with over three decades of experience, is set to take on the leadership role on March 18, 2024.

"Mookie has an extensive executive background with three decades of experience and is positioned well to lead the airport in the areas of rebuilding passenger and route traffic, navigating complex airport and airline partnerships, expertly managing resources and new revenues to meet our City’s aviation goals, and maintaining the employee culture while keeping it aligned with our customer service initiatives," said Maguire.

San José Mayor Matt Mahan expressed confidence in Patel, stating, "Our next airport director has big shoes to fill, and with over 30 years of experience, I believe Mookie is the right person to usher in a new era of innovation and reliability for our award-winning airport."

Patel, who will be overseeing a department with an annual operating budget of $176 million and more than 200 employees at SJC, shared his excitement for the new role, saying, "I am eager to bring my expertise and spirited leadership to the SJC team. I am committed to fostering strong partnerships with airlines and contributing to the sustained success of the Airport for the benefit of the entire community."

Patel's career journey includes roles at various international airports and in the aviation industry, providing him with a deep understanding of airline/airport economics and the economic impact of airports in their respective regions. His most recent position was as the Business and Finance Chief Officer at Austin Bergstrom International Airport.

"I firmly believe travel should be accessible to all. Be it a traveler who can afford a $49 fare or someone who can afford a $449 fare, it is in our best interest to have a wide range of airline partners providing sustainable and easily accessible flights to and from our community and points beyond," Patel added.

Patel, who holds a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Management from Oklahoma State University and has a private pilot license, was awarded the Dedicated Service Award from the American Association of Airport Executives in 2022.

The appointment of Mukesh Patel as the new Director of Aviation at SJC marks a significant step in the airport's strategic vision and operational excellence, ensuring the continued success and growth of San José Mineta International Airport.