Overview

• Michael McMurray, a veteran in transportation and infrastructure, has been selected to head the Chicago Department of Aviation, replacing acting commissioner Tracey Payne.
• McMurray’s appointment requires City Council confirmation before he can officially assume the role.
• The Department of Aviation oversees O’Hare and Midway airports, critical hubs for Chicago’s economy and global connectivity, which face record summer travel demand.
• McMurray brings over 25 years of public and private sector experience, including leadership roles in engineering, procurement, and law, as well as previous city government positions.
• The leadership change occurs as the city prepares to advance O’Hare’s Global Terminal project and navigate legal disputes with American Airlines over gate reassignments.