Kevin Bumen, San Luis Obispo County’s director of airports, is stepping down at the beginning of October.
Bumen, who has managed San Luis Obispo County’s two airports since 2013, is taking a new position as the first chief commercial officer for San Francisco International Airport. His last day in San Luis Obispo is Oct. 9, and the county plans to appoint an interim director.
Bumen oversaw a time of incredible growth during his time as director of airports. The number of passengers coming through the San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport more than doubled from 2013 to 2016, thanks in part to the airport adding six routes and bringing in two new airlines. SLO County Regional also saw the construction of a $40 million passenger terminal, and under Bumen’s leadership conducted the airport’s first economic impact study, which showed the airport brings $85 million per year into the region.
“Through his hard work and vision, we have seen our airport grow from a modest community asset to a true gateway to the world,” SLO County Administrative Officer Wade Horton said in a news release announcing Bumen’s departure. “Kevin’s leadership has set the course for our airport to a bright future.” In addition to San Luis Obispo County Regional Airport, Bumen also manages the smaller Oceano Public Airport.