Chicago Executive Airport Bids Farewell To Its Leader In Wheeling

WHEELING, IL — Court D. Harris, chairman of the Chicago Executive Airport Board since 2017, was recently honored at the airport's July 16 board meeting for his years of service and dedication to growing and modernizing Illinois' fourth busiest airport.

Illinois Representative Tracy Katz Muhl (D-Northbrook, 57th District) recently recognized Harris with a resolution.

"Court Harris' thoughtful leadership, community partnership, and tireless service has ensured Chicago Executive Airport will continue to grow stronger, more connected, and better prepared in the future," Muhl said as she shared the resolution with the board during Harris' final meeting as chairman.

Muhl represents parts of Arlington Heights, Buffalo Grove, Des Plaines, Glencoe, Glenview, Mount Prospect, Northbrook, Northfield, Riverwoods, Wheeling, Wilmette, and Winnetka.

According to CEA, during his tenure, Harris "ensured that the airport maintained its commitment to being self-sustaining and generating revenue from users rather than burdening local taxpayers". He championed the long-term update of CEA’s master plan, confirming its future growth would be guided by a commitment to sustainability and being a good neighbor to surrounding communities. He secured multi-year FAA funding for the Residential Sound Insulation Program that provides noise-resistant windows and doors to residents free of charge.

Harris also helped grow the airport's annual 5K event (Run the Runway) from 400 participants to more than 1,000, transforming it into a signature community event.

Harris' leadership was pivotal in attracting the largest development in CEA's history, according to airport officials. The Sky Harbour Group will develop 25 acres on Milwaukee Avenue that will include more than 300,000 square feet of new aircraft hangar space. He also created the Airport Spotlight program, which celebrates the dedication of individuals who contribute daily to the airport’s success.

Harris, a graduate of the United States military at West Point, served in the U.S. Army for more than five years when he managed air base logistics in Afghanistan, ensured logistical support across Central Asia, managed multimillion-dollar budgets, and oversaw teams and assets.

Harris has been an active member of numerous organizations, including the Arlington Heights
Police and Fire Commission, the board of directors of the West Point Society of Chicago, the St.
Viator Alumni Association, the Council of 100 at The Bunker Incubator, the Chicago Sister Cities
International Committee for Milan, the National Italian-American Foundation, Team RWB, the
Knights of Columbus, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars.