Steve Sisneros
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With over 30 years of leadership in the aviation industry, Steve Sisneros is a trusted name in airport-airline relations, capital development, and infrastructure strategy. As the Founder and Principal of Sisneros Advisors, Steve brings a depth of experience and a reputation for collaboration, innovation, and results.

Prior to founding Sisneros Advisors, Steve served as Vice President of Airport Affairs at Southwest Airlines, where he led the company’s relationships with more than 100 airports and managed an annual budget over $2B. During his tenure, Steve led the teams which successfully negotiated and delivered some of the airline industry’s most transformative terminal projects and worked aggressively to mitigate rising costs with airport partners.

Steve’s leadership extends beyond bricks and mortar. In times of crisis — including the COVID-19 pandemic — he led strategic negotiations that delivered over $300M in cost relief to Southwest while accelerating entry into 18 new markets. His guidance helped balance operational continuity, long-term growth, and fiscal responsibility during one of the most challenging periods in modern aviation.

Throughout his career, Steve has been recognized not only for his strategic vision, but also for his ability to bring people together. His approach is rooted in servant leadership, clear communication, and a deep respect for each stakeholder — from elected officials and public agencies to concessionaires, developers, and fellow airlines.

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While working to advance the interests of Southwest Airlines, Steve led his team to negotiate some of the most transformative agreements in the industry, based on strong relationships.

Recent examples include:

  • Kansas City International (MCI), the Use and Lease Agreement included unprecedented stakeholder participation to finance and construct the $1.5B new terminal.

  • San Diego International (SAN), the governance process included as part of the new $3.5B Terminal 1 project enshrined stakeholder participation for both scope and budget.

  • Long-term agreement with the City of Dallas, which enables $800M in facility improvements at Dallas Love Field (DAL).

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Additionally, Steve has vast experience in tenant-led projects including:

  • $60M Terminal E Hammerhead Expansion at Philadelphia International (PHL).

  • $1B Terminal 1/1.5 Modernization at Los Angeles International (LAX).

  • Ground Lease for the $2B Concourse 0 at Los Angeles International (LAX).

  • $500M West Concourse expansion at Houston Hobby (HOU).

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