Paine Field Airport interim director promoted to permanent role

Joshua Marcy has been appointed permanent director at Paine Field Airport. He will oversee the operations of the 1,300-acre facility.

Marcy, who was previously the deputy director, became interim director when Arif Ghouse left to become chief operating office at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. Marcy will be managing a team of 90 people, who are owned by Snohomish County.

Marcy stated in a news release on Thursday that he was committed to taking the airport forward by encouraging collaboration with public and private partners, and continuing to provide excellent service to aviation and surrounding communities.

Marcy has been in the aviation industry for over 20 years. He previously worked as an operations manager at Sea-Tac Airport and Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, Texas. He will join Paine Field on May 20, 2021.

Paine Field is home to more than 550 planes including general aviation aircraft. It also provides ground support, maintenance, repairs and overhauls. The Boeing Co. also has manufacturing and testing operations at Paine Field.

Recent study by Washington Department of Transportation estimated that the airport's impact on the economy was around $60 million. This included more than 46,000 jobs at the airport. Recently, the airport announced plans to build a research and technology center and repository of sustainable aviation fuels. This is a major element in airlines' near-term carbon reduction goals.

In a press release, County Executive Dave Somers stated that 'we are constantly looking for ways to make Paine field stronger and more varied'. Joshua Marcy will be the ideal leader for Paine Field, as we continue to promote growth and innovation in our aerospace industry.