WARWICK, RI – January 9, 2026 – The Rhode Island Airport Corporation (RIAC) today announced that Duc Nguyen, executive vice president of public safety, will be departing the organization after nearly four years of service.
During his tenure, Mr. Nguyen contributed to several important operational and organizational changes within RIAC’s public safety and compliance functions. His work supported the continued evolution of safety, security, and regulatory coordination across RIAC’s system of airports during a period of significant industry change.
“We thank Duc for his service to RIAC and for his contributions during a time when airports nationwide were navigating complex operational and regulatory challenges,” said Iftikhar Ahmad, president and CEO of RIAC. “We respect his decision to resign and wish him the very best.”
To ensure continuity and stability, RIAC also announced that the responsibilities of the EVP of public safety role will be assumed internally. Public safety, security, regulatory coordination, and related functions will be jointly absorbed by Nikolas Persson, executive vice president, and Dawn Mineker, P.E., senior vice president.
Together, Persson and Mineker bring more than 32 years of combined experience in airport leadership, operations, and infrastructure development. Both are FAA-certified pilots, providing a strong operational and aviation-focused perspective to their roles. They have worked closely with RIAC’s public safety and operations teams and with federal, state, and local partners, positioning the organization for a seamless transition.
“My time at RIAC has been both challenging and rewarding. I appreciate the trust placed in me and the collaboration across the organization,” stated Duc Nguyen, former EVP of public safety. “While I am stepping away for personal reasons at this time, I remain supportive of RIAC’s mission and its continued success.”
About Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport: A convenient and low-cost gateway to New England, Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport (PVD) has a large catchment area with 7.5 million residents within 90 minutes of the airport. It attracts passengers from nearby Massachusetts and eastern Connecticut. PVD is located just outside of Providence, Rhode Island. Well known for ease of traveler access, affordable parking, and faster security lines, PVD is frequently named as one of USA Today’s “Readers’ Choice Best Small Airports” and has earned further distinction as a No. 1 airport in Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best Awards.” Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport was also named one of the Top 3 Airports in the U.S.by Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards and Top Ten in the world by the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice Awards for 2023. More information is available at https://flyri.com/.
