Api Appulingam, P.E., A.A.E., Chief Development Officer
Philadelphia International Airport | Northeast Philadelphia Airport

Api Appulingam, P.E., A.A.E., is the Chief Development Officer, and oversees a multi-billion dollar program tasked with making critical improvements and developing new infrastructure at both Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) and the Northeast Philadelphia Airport (PNE) through architectural, engineering, environmental, planning and sustainability projects. Ultimately, she is responsible for bringing innovation to the airfield, terminals and roadways at both airports.

Prior to her current role, Ms. Appulingam served as the Philadelphia Office Leader for RS&H, Inc., a national provider of architecture, engineering and consulting services. There, she led significant aviation development projects for general aviation and commercial service airports in the U.S. and internationally. Ms. Appulingam earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Texas A&M University and a Master of Business Administration in Project Management/Corporate Finance from the University of Dallas. She is a registered Professional Engineer (P.E.) and an Accredited Airport Executive (A.A.E.).

Ms. Appulingam serves as the Philadelphia Chapter’s Immediate Past President for Women’s Transportation Seminar (WTS), and as the Vice Chair for the American Association of Airport Executives' (AAAE) Inclusion in Aviation Committee. She is also a member of the Board of Trustees for the Free Library of Philadelphia. Ms. Appulingam is passionate about mentoring and supporting the next generation of STEM professionals. She mentors young women ages 13 to 18 as part of the WTS Transportation YOU program, which provides a hands-on, interactive introduction to a wide variety of transportation careers.

In 2017, Ms. Appulingam was recognized by the Society of Women Engineers as a “Woman Engineer You Should Know.” This recognition is for women engineers blazing new trails in a traditionally male-dominated field, aiming to make the world a better place. In 2021, the Philadelphia Business Journal recognized her as a “Woman of Distinction” for blazing trails across Greater Philadelphia’s business landscape with her leadership, vision and tenacity. Also in 2021, Ms. Appulingam was recognized by Airport Business magazine as a “Top 40 under 40” which showcases the aviation industry’s top talent working to make a positive impact on the way the aviation system works. In 2024, the Airport Minority Advisory Council recognized her with the “Airport Design Innovation and Inclusion” award for her leadership in innovative airport design projects while promoting diversity and inclusion within the aviation industry. Additionally, the Asian American Chamber of Commerce of Greater Philadelphia recognized her with an “Impact” award for going beyond the call of duty to make meaningful contributions to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion. In 2025, she received the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA) Mid-Atlantic Chapter (MAC)” Trailblazer” Award.  This award honors an individual for their profound impact on the built environment within the tri-state area and for their leadership and dedication within the construction services industry and the professionals who shape infrastructure.