Stacey Lora

Stacey Lora, Vice President Safety and Security, manages Terminal 4’s safety and security program. She ensures that T4 is focused on achieving a zero-accident culture and adhering to all security-focused regulations while working closely with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Police, the Transportation Security Administration, and US Customs and Border Protection, among others. 

Ms. Lora previously served as a security manager for American Airlines and has more than 20 years of experience in aviation operations.

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How did you get your start working in the aviation industry?

Stacey Lora: I started working at JFK just out of high school. I had the choice to work for TWA or American Airlines, so I went with American. I worked part-time while going through college. The airport is an environment like no other. I went in the direction of Aviation Security, so I pursued a Bachelor of Science in Criminal Justice at Adelphi and later earned a Master of Business Administration focusing on Strategic Management. In my experience, being a woman in this field was and is challenging. You must always continue improving your skills. Aviation is a dynamic and ever-changing environment. My experience and education have helped me tremendously in my current role as Vice President, Safety and Security at JFKIAT, T4. Take the opportunities presented to you; they will serve you well. 

What makes the New York metropolitan area unique to other aviation and airport markets?

Stacey Lora: The New York Aviation market is unique because there is a taste of everything available. New York is a bustling business market, but JFK has a lot of pleasure travel; it is a melting pot. You can meet people from various continents walking through Terminal 4. It is such a diverse environment, and it is very rewarding to get to know visitors and listen to their stories of travels.

Can you tell us about any sustainability initiatives your company has implemented?

Stacey Lora: At JFKIAT, we have a comprehensive sustainability program whose mission is to continuously advance sustainability initiatives by capitalizing on opportunities in the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) sectors to create an eco-friendly terminal for the benefit of all stakeholders. In doing so, we developed a strategy focusing on environmental stewardship, social responsibility, accessibility & inclusion, and community engagement. Our sustainability focus areas include energy efficiency, renewable energy, waste management, water conservation, climate resilience, indoor environmental quality, sustainable transportation, biodiversity, community impact, innovation, and food & beverage sustainability.

In 2022, Terminal 4 at John F. Kennedy International Airport was awarded Platinum certification for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) for Existing Buildings: Operations & Maintenance by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). Terminal 4, operated by JFKIAT, is the first airline terminal in the United States to receive Platinum recognition for pre-existing airline terminals.

Does your company have internships or other programs to attract young employees, particularly women?

Stacey Lora: Yes, JFKIAT actively recruits female interns from local colleges and universities. Currently, 85% of our interns are female. Additionally, JFKIAT is a co-sponsor of Girls In Aviation Day each year at JFK Airport.