Cape Cod Gateway Airport Names New Manager

HYANNIS, MA — Cape Cod Gateway Airport has a new leader for its daily operations, officials announced.

Michael Nelson, an accomplished aviation executive with more than three decades of experience in airport operations, air traffic control and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) leadership roles, has been appointed manager of Cape Cod Gateway Airport (HYA) in Hyannis, Massachusetts.

The Cape Cod Gateway Airport Commission voted unanimously to appoint Nelson during a special meeting on Thursday, July 10, culminating an extensive search process. Nelson had served as interim manager of the airport since April 2025.

Nelson will immediately assume responsibility for Cape Cod Gateway Airport daily operations, regulatory compliance, capital improvement planning, fuel and lease management and community relations. He will also ensure the airport meets all federal, state and local requirements and serve as its primary liaison with the Town of Barnstable, FAA, Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and other stakeholders.

“Mike Nelson, with his combination of aviation experience and familiarity with Cape Cod Gateway Airport, is the ideal choice for the airport manager position,” said John Flores, Chairman, Cape Cod Gateway Airport Commission. “We look forward to working with Mike as he builds upon the existing momentum driving the growth and popularity of our regional airport among travelers and commercial carriers alike.”

Prior to joining Cape Cod Gateway Airport, Nelson held management positions with Midwest Air Traffic Control Service, Inc., and was based at HYA. He also served in FAA air traffic management and district operations roles for more than 30 years at Logan International Airport in Boston and Otis Air National Guard Base on Cape Cod.

“I am honored to lead and navigate the next era of success for Cape Cod Gateway Airport, and work with an exceptional team of dedicated professionals,” said Michael Nelson, Manager, Cape Cod Gateway Airport. “The airport is an economic catalyst for the region, and we look forward to engaging with communities we serve to ensure the airport remains a vital and vibrant local resource and travel destination.”

A resident of Plymouth, Massachusetts, Nelson earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from the University of Vermont.