Jacob Haik: New Manager of Van Nuys Airport Focuses on Sustainability and Growth
Jacob Haik is the new manager of Van Nuys Airport. He started in this role in September. Before this, he was the director of sustainability and compliance for Los Angeles World Airports.
Haik holds a degree in biochemistry. Initially, he wanted to be a doctor and dreamed of opening a free clinic. His passion for science led him to study biochemistry and get involved in student government. He believes his degree gives him a clear understanding of operations at the airport.
Haik has four children: two boys and two girls. He jokes that Saturdays became more interesting when his kids started school. His children have attended UCLA and USC.
One of Haik’s sons wants to be a commercial pilot. Like his father, this son chose a different path than medical school. Haik feels proud of his son’s choice and appreciates how it provides him insight into the aviation industry.
What are Jacob Haik’s main priorities as the new manager of Van Nuys Airport?
Interview with Jacob Haik: New Manager of Van Nuys Airport
Date: [Insert Date]
By: [Insert Journalist’s Name]
Q: Congratulations on your new role as the manager of Van Nuys Airport. Can you tell us a bit about your background and what led you to this position?
Jacob Haik: Thank you! I’m excited to be here. My background is quite diverse; I graduated with a degree in biochemistry. Initially, I aspired to be a doctor and had dreams of opening a free clinic. However, my journey took a different route as I became deeply involved in student government during my studies, which really shaped my understanding of operations and community engagement in public sectors.
Q: How do you think your education in biochemistry influences your approach to managing the airport?
Jacob Haik: My degree in biochemistry gives me a unique perspective on problem-solving and operations. Science teaches you to analyse systems, understand complex interactions, and think critically—skills that are essential for managing an airport that has diverse operations, regulatory demands, and community impacts.
Q: You have four children. How has your family influenced your career choices?
Jacob Haik: My kids are a huge part of my life and have definitely influenced me. I often joke that Saturdays became more interesting when they started school! They’ve brought a fresh perspective on balancing work and family. I’m especially proud of my son who is pursuing a career as a commercial pilot. While he chose a different path than medical school, it excites me how our family discussions often revolve around aviation and the industry’s future.
Q: Sustainability is a key focus for you. What specific initiatives do you plan to implement at Van Nuys Airport?
Jacob Haik: Absolutely, sustainability is a top priority. I plan to expand our electric vehicle charging infrastructure and incorporate green aviation practices. These steps are essential not only for reducing our carbon footprint but also for enhancing our role in the local economy, which contributes over $2 billion annually. We must ensure that growth at the airport aligns with sustainable practices.
Q: You mentioned growing up near the Port of Los Angeles. How has that experience shaped your vision for the airport?
Jacob Haik: Growing up in Wilmington, I learned firsthand about the economic significance of transit operations. The Port and the airport share similarities—they both facilitate the movement of goods and generate substantial revenue while being regulated by various government agencies. That background gives me a strong appreciation for the logistics and economic dynamics at play, and I plan to leverage that understanding to further elevate Van Nuys Airport’s operations and its contribution to the local economy.
Q: Lastly, what message would you like to convey to the community regarding your plans for the airport?
Jacob Haik: I want the community to know that my vision for Van Nuys Airport is centered on sustainability, economic contribution, and community engagement. I am committed to transparency and fostering a collaborative environment where everyone—residents, businesses, and the airport—can thrive together. I am looking forward to working with everyone to make our airport a model of excellence in both operations and environmental responsibility.
Thank you for having me; I look forward to this journey!
Sustainability is important to Haik. He plans to make Van Nuys Airport more sustainable by expanding electric vehicle charging and implementing green aviation practices. He aims to support the airport’s economic role, which contributes over $2 billion to the local economy each year.
Haik grew up in Wilmington, near the Port of Los Angeles. He sees similarities between the port and the airport. Both move goods, generate revenue, and are regulated by external government agencies. Growing up near transit helped him understand its economic importance.