North Austin News

Chris Sundly, who joined the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) team in 2023 as an Airport Duty Manager, quickly transitioned to the role of Airside Operations Manager – Safety Management System (SMS) in 2024. His aviation journey began in Fall Creek, Wisconsin, where he grew up with a passion for aviation and sports. Sundly recalls his high school mascot fondly: “My high school mascot was the ‘Crickets,’ so yes, I was a Fall Creek Cricket.” His early exposure to aviation came from a neighbor who owned a helicopter. “My neighbor would give me rides whenever I asked, and I was hooked,” he said.

Sundly's passion for aviation grew through family travels and visits to the annual air show at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. He pursued his interest by enrolling at the University of North Dakota (UND), where he shifted focus from piloting to exploring the business side of aviation.

Sundly’s career path is unconventional. He started working at a fixed-based operator while completing his undergraduate degree, gaining hands-on industry experience. Over time, he advanced through various roles across six commercial service airports in the U.S., including airport operations specialist and compliance manager. He also earned an MBA from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in 2022.

At AUS, Sundly leads the implementation of a comprehensive Safety Management System under new FAA regulations. "The purpose of the Safety Management System at AUS is to better track, plan, improve, and collect data on safety," Sundly explained. The SMS program aims to enhance safety and promote collaboration among airport divisions and stakeholders. "As we identify and mitigate risks, it can save stakeholders money, improve the traveling experience, and maximize the safety culture of the airport," he added.

In 2024, Sundly achieved a significant milestone by earning the Accredited Airport Executive (AAE) designation. “The AAE is the most prestigious professional designation you can obtain in the airport industry,” he noted.

Sundly emphasized that his current role involves strategic planning rather than day-to-day operations management. "SMS is about long-term planning and building a safety culture," he said.

His advice for aspiring aviation professionals is straightforward: be prepared to work hard. "The airport is a 24/7, 365 operation that demands near perfection," Sundly shared.

Whether implementing new safety systems or mentoring future professionals, Sundly plays an integral role in shaping AUS's future and contributing to advancements in aviation safety.