SAVANNAH, GA – It is with great sadness and loss that we have learned of the passing of Airport Attorney Emeritus James B. Blackburn, Sr. Mr. Blackburn passed away on Wednesday, January 22, 2020.
Mr. Blackburn was named as the attorney for the Savannah Airport Commission in 1958, and he served over 50 years in that office. He was instrumental in the construction, growth, and development of the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport and was intimately involved in various projects for the airport.
Savannah Airport Commission Chairman Stephen S. Green remembers Mr. Blackburn for “fostering the airport’s long-standing partnership with the Georgia Air National Guard; the recruitment of Grumman Corporation, now Gulfstream Aerospace Corporation, to Savannah, and the subsequent expansion of Gulfstream to become Savannah’s largest employer. “
Executive Director Greg Kelly recalls his efforts in “the financing and construction of the interchange linking the airport to Interstate Highway 95, and the construction of the new passenger terminal; and the development of numerous hotels and ancillary businesses surrounding the airport, which were critical components of the airport’s attractiveness to business, and its contribution to the Savannah economy.”
Mr. Blackburn’s tireless quest for knowledge and application to the operations of the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport was invaluable. The Commission will always remember Mr. Blackburn’s integrity, dedication, commitment, and service to the Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport and the City of Savannah.