Lucia Oswald

Lucia Oswald is the Vice President of Business Development at Global Elite Group, Inc., an aviation security company located in Garden City, NY. Lucia joined Global Elite in 2008 and has held various positions within the company, including Director of Operations and Vice President of Operations, before taking on her current role. With over 45 years of experience in the aviation industry, Lucia has also worked for TWA in both the U.S. and Europe, as well as for Spirit Airlines, Jet Airways of India, and Maxjet.

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How did you begin your career in aviation or at the airports?

Lucia Oswald: I started out working in aviation for TWA in 1968 until the American Airlines acquisition of TWA in 2001. During these years, my TWA airline career included multiple positions and locations both in the U.S. and Europe.  In 2001 after American Airlines closed down JFK, I continued in aviation working for Jet Airways of India, Spirit Airlines and Maxjet.  Ultimately I came on to Global Elite Group in 2008, certainly on the “other side” of aviation as an aviation security service provider instead of airline direct.  My work with Global Elite has also provided a broader view of the aviation industry from the service provider side.

Was aviation your first career choice?

Lucia Oswald: Aviation was not my first choice, but I took a position with TWA so that I could travel for a couple of years.  That was my initial intention – I thought I would stay for two years while going to school and to get some travel in. In those early years working for an airline was a big plus with great benefits for travel.  As it turned out, working for TWA, at the time a premier airline, was an incredible experience.  The people I worked with and the whole aviation network was energizing and so dynamic.  I also kept getting promoted.  So as time went on, I ended up staying and fell right into it with no regrets.

What are the essential skills that a new airport worker should possess to succeed?

Lucia Oswald: Team work, customer service, communication skills, adaptability to changing and challenging situations, and product knowledge.  Remember, you are the public face of the company that you work for.

How has networking and involvement in the airport community benefited your career?

Lucia Oswald: One of the benefits of my airline career when I started with Global Elite in 2008 (the other side of aviation) was the knowledge of airport operations, airline operations, and overall knowledge of the industry. I found that having worked in airports, and through the network of people I experienced over the years, has provided a great benefit in my positions with Global Elite.

Are there any airport redevelopment projects that you are particularly excited to see completed?

Lucia Oswald: The ongoing JFK redevelopment plan is exciting and great. Having worked at JFK for many years as I have, I believe the current construction is well worth it to elevate the airport to world-class standards, especially as a major gateway to the United States.  Aside from JFK, I know there are numerous other airport re-development programs going on around the country and it is exciting to see that the U.S. is upgrading their airports for better efficiency and customer/passenger access and ease.

What distinguishes the New York metropolitan area from other aviation and airport markets?

Lucia Oswald: For aviation markets, the New York metropolitan area stands out with having three major airports, both for connections and, of course, access to Manhattan, a major business and leisure destination. New York City is a major hub for airlines with a multitude of connection capabilities to international destinations, as well as domestic destinations. As congested as its airspace might be, it is still the preferred gateway and connection point in the United States.