Last week, aviation associations honored the legacy of Robert Olislagers, a prominent airport leader and general aviation (GA) advocate, in recognition of his contributions to the aviation industry. Olislagers, who served as executive director of Centennial Airport (KAPA) in Colorado for more than two decades, left a lasting impact on both the airport and the broader community. He passed away on October 3 after a battle with pancreatic cancer.
Appointed as executive director of KAPA in 2000, Olislagers helped to secure the airport's growth by authoring and advocating for a bill that restored federal funding. This effort solidified KAPA's status as a critical hub for business aviation, fostering its reputation as one of the world's top GA airports. “Centennial Airport is widely recognized as one of the world’s best general aviation airports, and Robert Olislagers is a primary reason why,” said NBAA president and CEO Ed Bolen.
APA's economic impact almost doubled during Olislagers’ tenure, contributing $2.1 billion to Colorado’s economy by 2018, according to the Colorado Division of Aeronautics Airport Economic Impact Report. Olislagers also chaired the American Association of Airport Executives' (AAAE) GA committee, founded an annual GA conference, and actively represented business aviation before Congress and federal agencies.
“Olislagers was named to the NATA board of directors in 2012 and was an active association member for many years, providing an innate perspective on the intricate connection between airports, tenants, pilots, and communities,” remarked NATA president and CEO Curt Castagna. “Robert was not only a valued mentor, but a true friend to many of us in aviation. He knew everything about the industry and was willing to share it all.”
Throughout his career, Olislagers received numerous accolades, including the AAAE Distinguished Service Award and the NBAA's prestigious Silk Scarf Award. His advocacy and leadership were further recognized with his induction into the Colorado Aviation Hall of Fame in 2021.

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