YAKIMA, Wash. – Christopher Hopkins has been appointed as the new director of the Yakima air terminal, starting his role on Monday, January 12.
Yakima City Manager Vicki Baker expressed her confidence in Hopkins’ abilities, highlighting the importance of the airport’s role in the economic health of the Yakima Valley.
“Because of the significant role the airport plays in the economic health of the Yakima Valley, we were looking for someone who has extensive airport management skills and can build relationships with tenants at the airport, the airport staff, funding partners, etc.,” Baker said. “Christoper fits that bill well. I’m confident he will both manage day-to-day operations of the airport while also developing and implementing a vision for its future.”
Hopkins previously worked as a consultant developing Aerospace Center of Excellence locations at U.S. airports. He also served as assistant director of aviation at the Brownsville South Padre Island International Airport and was a vice president for HSS, Inc., overseeing security teams at major airports across the country.
“I’m excited for the opportunities that the Yakima airport offers to grow not only commercial air service there but also to foster new prospects that will benefit the entire Yakima Valley economy,” Hopkins said.
The City of Yakima’s Human Resources Department conducted a nationwide search for a new airport director following the resignation of the former director in October 2025.
