Mark Papko Starts as New Director of Dane County Regional Airport

August 21, 2025
Tomasz Pajor, (608) 661-6442
Airport

(Madison, WI) Dane County Regional Airport (MSN) is proud to officially welcome Mark Papko as its new airport director. Papko was named airport director by Dane County Executive Melissa Agard and confirmed by the County Board of Supervisors. He began onsite at the airport on July 7, 2025.

 

“Dane County is an exciting, growing area and having a new leader at our airport with forward-thinking vision is exactly what our community needs,” said Dane County Executive Melissa Agard. “His leadership will enhance the economic impact of our airport, elevate the services offered, and take the Dane County Regional Airport to the next level.”

 

Papko returns to Dane County with a distinguished background in aviation leadership, having served as the Director of Operations and Projects at Duluth International Airport since 2020. There, he oversaw a $200 million capital improvement program and led environmental compliance initiatives including stormwater and PFAS management in collaboration with federal, state, and local agencies. His career also spans roles at Grand Junction Regional Airport, San Jose International, and Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport.

 

Papko began his aviation career at MSN in 2013. “I’m honored to return to Dane County Regional Airport, where my aviation journey began,” he said. “I look forward to working with our exceptional staff, airport partners, carriers, and the community to expand service, enhance the passenger experience, and bolster regional economic vitality. The future of our airport is bright, and I am ready to lead it into a new era.”

 

Papko holds a Bachelor of Science in Aviation Operations from St. Cloud State University and an MBA in Aviation from Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University. He is an Accredited Member of the American Association of Airport Executives (A.A.A.E.).

 

The Dane County Regional Airport provides convenient, low-stress, and affordable options for both leisure and business travelers with daily arrivals and departures, 17 non-stops and one-stop service that provides access to nearly every major city worldwide. The airport also features new and updated restaurants, bars, and shopping. Travelers will also find added amenities aimed at making travel easier and more convenient such as a new Mother’s Lounge, Children’s Play Area, meeting rooms, free WiFi6, an indoor pet relief area, and more. Visit msnairport.com for more information.

 

High-resolution headshots and photos of Mark Papko and Dane County Regional Airport are available for download at: www.Flickr.com/msnairport/albums

 

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