PHILADELPHIA – Mayor Cherelle L. Parker announced today that Atif Saeed, Department of Aviation CEO will leave his position, effective Friday, February 27, 2026.
“I want to thank Atif Saeed for his leadership and service to the City of Philadelphia,” said Mayor Cherelle L. Parker. “Under his direction, our airports emerged stronger from the pandemic, advanced critical modernization efforts, and positioned Philadelphia to welcome the world in 2026 and beyond. We are grateful for his contributions and wish him continued success in this next chapter.”
Mayor Parker today named Tracy S. Borda, currently Chief Financial Officer at Philadelphia International Airport, as Interim Chief Executive Officer for Philadelphia International Airport, effective February 27, 2026. Borda joined the Airport in 1995 and has served in a variety of capacities and roles for 30 years. A national search will be conducted to identify a permanent successor for Saeed.
Saeed joined the Department of Aviation as CEO in December 2022 and led the airport through a period of significant recovery and transformation. In 2024, the former Division of Aviation was elevated to a City department, with Saeed serving on the mayor’s cabinet.
During his tenure, Saeed modernized the airport’s leadership structure and partnered with the PHL and PNE team to launch a strategic plan focused on enterprise-wide collaboration and priority initiatives leading into the milestone years of 2025 and 2026. Key focus areas include:
- Advancing a $500 million capital improvements program to enhance existing facilities.
- Elevating the passenger experience through a visitor welcome program designed to deliver a world-class arrival.
- Expanding business opportunities, including bringing more local restaurants to PHL through the concessions program.
- Strengthening the workforce by accelerating hiring for critical roles such as custodial workers and investing in employee growth.
In 2023, the Department of Aviation finalized a three-year Use and Lease agreement with options for two one-year extensions. Revenue generated from airline rates and tenant charges is reinvested directly into airport operations, capital projects, and reserves. The agreement —combined with continued passenger growth —have been cited by the ratings agencies in announcements of ratings upgrades.
“I will always look back at my time at PHL and PNE fondly,” said Atif Saeed. “I am confident that our airports are ready to welcome the world for the events of 2026 and beyond because of the highly experienced and dedicated leadership team at the helm and the support of Mayor Cherelle L. Parker and fellow administration members. From the start, by addressing the unhoused situation at PHL with a caring, multi-agency approach, this team was committed to ensuring that through strategic investments and thoughtful planning, PHL and PNE are in a position of strength to continue to enhance airport operations for an even brighter future.”
