Jul 16, 2025

GOAA Thanks Board Chair Tim Weisheyer For His Service, Welcomes New Board Member Jason James

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA) today celebrated the leadership and accomplishments of outgoing Board Chair Tim Weisheyer, whose term ends this week, during the GOAA monthly Board meeting.

Governor Ron DeSantis appointed Mr. Weisheyer to the Florida State University Board of Trustees, effective August 30, 2025. Central Florida business leader Jason James has been appointed to succeed Mr. Weisheyer as the newest member of the GOAA Board.

Mr. Weisheyer joined the GOAA Board in May 2021. In April 2024, the Board selected him to serve as Chair. During that time, he used his talents in leadership, strategic planning, and site development to guide a $5.4-plus billion Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) at the busiest airport in the state of Florida and to support initiatives at Orlando Executive Airport (ORL). Orlando International Airport (MCO) welcomed more than 57 million passengers in 2024, and ORL provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the Central Florida region.

Both airports experienced significant growth and investment during Mr. Weisheyer’s tenure and under his leadership as Chair, including:

  • The groundbreaking and landmark agreement with United Airlines on the $315M Technical Operations complex at MCO.

  • The launch of GOAA’s bold new branding, including redesigned logos, a fully rebuilt website, and an intuitive mobile app aimed at improving digital access and customer service.

  • A nationwide executive search that culminated in the hiring of Lance Lyttle as GOAA’s new Chief Executive Officer.

  • Expansion efforts at ORL, including a $15M investment for a pair of brand-new hangars for Atlantic Aviation.

While a Board Member, Mr. Weisheyer was also instrumental in the opening of Terminal C, a state-of-the-art facility that elevates the travel experience for millions of passengers.

“As I reflect on my time as a GOAA Board Member and as Chairman, I am filled with gratitude for the incredible journey I’ve had,” said Mr. Weisheyer. “From celebrating the opening of Terminal C to honoring brave veterans during Liberty Weekend events, every moment has reinforced my belief that there is power in unity and teamwork.”

“While we will indeed miss the committed and excellent leadership of Mr. Weisheyer, we are confident that he will continue to share his wealth of talents as a member of the Florida State University Board of Trustees,” Lance Lyttle, GOAA CEO, said. “He has helped to guide many initiatives that have laid a foundation for our airports to have greater success in the future.”

Gov. DeSantis announced Mr. James, President and Chief Executive Officer of Mechanical One, will serve a four-year term.

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“Being named to the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority Board is both a personal honor and professional calling,” Mr. James said. “Our airports represent Central Florida’s front door to the world and are vital economic engines to our region. I have deep respect for the leadership that’s come before me, and I look forward to building on their legacy, bringing the same spirit of innovation, service, and excellence that I’ve championed in my own business journey.”

Mr. James earned his associate degree from Valencia College and his bachelor’s degree from the University of Central Florida. His appointment is subject to confirmation by the Florida Senate.

Vice Chair Stephanie Kopelousos will lead Board functions until members select a new Chair.

Also, during Wednesday’s meeting, the Board approved the nominations of Mr. Jeffrey Brown to serve as Chief Development Officer and Dr. Randolph Hudgins to serve as Chief Administrative Officer. Mr. Brown comes to GOAA with more than 30 years of experience in capital projects at large and medium-hub commercial airports in the United States as well as military aviation facilities overseas. Dr. Hudgins was promoted from Vice President of Human Resources at GOAA where he has served since March 2017. Dr. Hudgins has more than 25 years of experience in private and public sector organizational administration.

The Greater Orlando Aviation Authority is proud to operate Orlando International Airport (MCO) and Orlando Executive Airport (ORL), two of Florida’s premier air travel gateways. MCO is a world-class global connector, serving nearly 58 million annual passengers across its three terminals, A, B and C. Connected to an Intermodal Terminal Facility that offers high-speed passenger rail service, Terminal C is an inventive structure that elevates the customer experience with 100% automated screening lanes at TSA checkpoints. ORL is conveniently located just miles from downtown Orlando and provides vital general aviation access to the heart of the region.

For more information, please contact the Office of Public Affairs at the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority at 407-825-2055 or email us at MCOPIO@goaa.org for further assistance.