Mobile Airport Authority Paid Over $571,000 in Severance to Former Executives

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Newly obtained records show the Mobile Airport Authority paid over $571,000 in severance packages to two former executives, Chris Curry and Andy Wilson, despite their departures being described as 'voluntary resignations.' Curry, the former airport director who had led the authority since 2017, was pledged three months of continued salary worth around $100,000 after notifying the Airport Authority board of his decision to step down in October 2024. Wilson, the former deputy director, also received a severance package, though the exact amount is unclear.

Why it matters

The large severance payouts to the former airport executives, despite their resignations being described as voluntary, have raised questions about transparency and accountability at the Mobile Airport Authority. Taxpayer-funded organizations like the Airport Authority are expected to exercise fiscal responsibility, and these severance deals may be viewed as excessive by the public.

The details

According to the confidential separation agreement obtained by Lagniappe through an open records request, former airport director Chris Curry was earning $400,747 a year when he left in October 2024. Curry was pledged three months of continued salary, amounting to around $100,000, as part of his 'severance benefit.' The former deputy director, Andy Wilson, also received a severance package, though the exact amount is unclear.

• Curry notified the Airport Authority board of his decision to step down in October 2024.
• Curry's last day as airport director was in October 2024.

What’s next

The Mobile Airport Authority board is expected to discuss the severance packages at its next public meeting, where they may face questions from local residents and taxpayers about the use of public funds.