James C. Chrisley
Director of Aviation
Clark County Department of Aviation
James C. Chrisley was appointed Director of Aviation for Clark County, Nevada, in 2025, bringing more than three decades of leadership experience across commercial, general aviation, and military airport operations both nationally and internationally.
In his current role, Chrisley oversees one of the most dynamic aviation systems in the United States, managing five airports: Harry Reid International Airport (LAS), Henderson Executive Airport (HND), North Las Vegas Airport (VGT), Jean Sport Aviation Center and Overton-Perkins Field. Under his leadership, LAS continues to rank among the top 10 busiest airports in North America - serving more than 58.4 million passengers in 2024. While LAS is most widely known for being the gateway to the sports and entertainment capital of the world, it also generates an annual economic impact of $35 billion and supports more than 18,000 jobs.
Chrisley has been leading the long-term revitalization of the airport system, including the HND and VGT master plans, as well as the LAS modernization and maximization projects to meet future aviation demand. Additionally, he has played a key role in planning, coordinating and advancing the Southern Nevada Supplemental Airport (SNSA) project, which once permitted and completed, will serve as the region's second commercial airport.
With more than a decade of experience at the Clark County Department of Aviation (CCDOA) previously serving as the Senior Director of Aviation, Chrisley has played a pivotal role in the airport system's support for high-profile regional events. He was a critical member of the Las Vegas Super Bowl LVIII Host Committee's Transportation and Parking Committee, leading the coordination and execution of airport operations in support of the first-ever mega event. Under his direction, the CCDOA began preparations for both the Super Bowl and the Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix races a year in advance to ensure efficient and seamless coordination. His leadership helped the airport system manage record-breaking volumes of commercial, general aviation, and cargo operations, as well as create a memorable guest experience for all passengers.
Prior to joining the CCDOA, Chrisley served more than 21 years in the U.S. Air Force as a Civil Engineering and Mission Support Officer. His oversight included executing security operations, airfield and facility maintenance, logistics, fire services, human resources and communications. He supported global military operations and held assignments at Creech and Nellis Air Force Bases in Southern Nevada.
Chrisley holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the U.S. Air Force Academy, and a Master of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Texas at Austin. He is also Certified Member (CM) of the American Association of Airport Executives.
He has been married to his wife Sunny for more than 27 years, raised three children and is the proud grandfather of two. In his spare time, he enjoys golfing, camping, playing racquetball and cheering on his favorite sports teams - the Raiders and Vegas Golden Knights.