LANCE LYTTLE

CEO, GREATER ORLANDO AVIATION AUTHORITY, ORLANDO

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority owns and operates Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two premier gateways serving Central Florida. MCO is Florida's busiest airport, welcoming nearly 58 million annual passengers, generating more than $41 billion in annual economic impact and supporting more than 300,000 jobs. Lyttle was named CEO in 2025, replacing Kevin Thibault, who resigned citing a family illness.

EDUCATION: University of West Indies (BS, MS)

NOTABLE TRENDS: The most notable trends are biometric technology, advanced air mobility — including electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft — and the implementation of artificial intelligence across our processes. Airports are becoming more than gateways. They are economic engines, logistics hubs and platforms for innovation.

DAILY RITUAL: I adhere to principles I learned in a book called The Power of Full Engagement: Managing Energy, Not Time, Is the Key to High Performance and Personal Renewal. It helps me in my day-to-day work and outlook. Plus, I am curious and always ask the question, “Why?” Curiosity is not a weakness. It is a professional accelerator.

FOOD FIX: Saltfish with callaloo, fried plantains, festival (a sweet, deep-fried cornmeal dumpling), scotch bonnet pepper, boiled green bananas and a slice of avocado.

IN MY DOWNTIME: I think people may be surprised to learn that I spent much of my youth painting and drawing superheroes. At heart, I am a creative person who loves to write poetry and songs. When it comes to sports, I love soccer and basketball; and while I do not enjoy running, I do it because I need the exercise.