LONDONDERRY – What would you ask the new director of Manchester-Boston Regional Airport? Ted Kitchens, the airport’s top executive, will hold an “Ask The Airport Director” public forum this month. The Q & A session will take place on Saturday, May 11 at 11 a.m. at the Aviation Museum of New Hampshire, 27 Navigator Road, Londonderry, N.H. The open forum is a chance for the public to hear the latest from Director Kitchens, who was hired last year for the top job at Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (MHT). It’s also an opportunity to ask questions directly to the Airport Director.

“One of the most important things we can do is communicate with the public,” Kitchens said. “That not only means telling our story, but also answering questions and listening to what people want from Manchester-Boston Regional Airport.” “That’s why we invite everyone to attend this forum,” Kitchens said.

The meeting is free and open to the public.

Since coming on board Oct. 1, Kitchens and his team have been working with business and government leaders to change the perception of the airport, which serves as an important economic engine for the entire state. Kitchens will use the forum to explain his strategy for strengthening the airport’s market position. “It’s not just about asking our current airlines to increase service,” Kitchens said. “It’s about collaborating with the local business community and the flying public to help make a case for expanded flights, additional routes, and new airlines.” The current year has already seen new airline service from Manchester to two important hubs. In March, United Airlines resumed service to their hub at Washington Dulles International Airport. Next month, American Airlines will launch non-stop flights to its Chicago O’Hare hub, replacing service that was formerly offered by United.

The airport continues to win accolades in areas of customer service and field operations. Last month, the airport’s Operations and Maintenance team received a perfect score following an annual FAA inspection. MHT remained open throughout the recent winter season, a long-running record that its the envy of other airports who deal with frequent snow and ice. “We have a lot to be proud of at this airport, and I look forward to answering questions and hearing from the public about what we can do to make it even better,” Kitchens said.

Kitchens, a member of the American Association of Airport Executives, came to New Hampshire after serving as general manager of the Houston Airport System in Texas. Prior to that, he held management and planning jobs at Newport News/Williamsburg International Airport in Virginia and Hartsfield International Airport in Atlanta, GA.

For more information about Manchester-Boston Regional Airport, visit  www.flymanchester.com.

The Aviation Museum of New Hampshire is a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to preserving aviation history in the Granite State, providing educational outreach programs that encourage student interest in aeronautics and related fields, and organizing programs that bring together the state’s diverse aviation community.

Those attending the Q & A will not be charged; however, visitors who wish to support the museum and visit the exhibits are asked to make a suggested donation of $5 per person, with discounts for veterans and seniors. Children under 12 are free.

The Museum is located at 27 Navigator Road, Londonderry, N.H. The museum is open Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 4 p.m. For more information, call (603) 669-4820 or visit the  www.aviationmuseumofnh.org