The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) today announced the appointment of Thomas J. Kinton Jr. as Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer. Kinton has been Acting Executive Director and CEO since July 1.

Kinton has been with Massport for 30 years and is a well known and respected aviation professional. He has served as Aviation Director since 1993, responsible for all activities and operations of Boston Logan International Airport, Hanscom Field in Bedford and Worcester Regional Airport. Kinton also served as Massport's Acting CEO from November 2001 until April 2002. In 2005, Kinton was named Airport Director of the Year by Airport Revenue News.

"The Massport Board is confident that we have identified the best person for the crucial job of Massport chief executive," said Board Chairman John Quelch. "Tom is a proven leader committed to operational excellence with the executive experience, business acumen and local knowledge to head Massport. Tom also brings to us a deep well of transportation industry expertise. All these factors combined set Tom apart during the selection process."

Kinton said, "I am thankful to the Board for this opportunity and for the trust they have in me. As an agency our responsibility rests in the safety and security of those we serve. That is our number one job. I look forward to the challenge of leading Massport."

Kinton appointed Ed Freni, Logan Airport's Director of Aviation Operations, as interim Director of Aviation until a professional search for a permanent Director of Aviation is complete.

Kinton's appointment includes a five-year contract and an annual salary of $255,000.

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