Port of Bellingham dismisses BLI director

The Port of Bellingham has let go of its aviation director at Bellingham International Airport (BLI) without giving much explanation.

BLI director of aviation Kip Turner signed a severance agreement with the port on August 5, according to documents provided by the port. Cascadia Daily News first reported Turner was let go without notice on July 19, being told it was because of financial reasons.

“The port does not discuss personnel matters,” wrote Mike Hogan, Port of Bellingham public affairs administrator, in response to a query from The Northern Light on why Turner was abruptly let go. 

The departure of Turner, who was hired last October, came as Southwest Airlines ended its last flights out of BLI on August 4. Southwest announced in the spring it would end service at BLI, among several other locations, because of financial constraints and Boeing aircraft shortages. The announcement was a blow to BLI flyers, and Turner had been quoted saying he was working to secure new airlines.

Despite Turner reportedly being told he was being let go because of financial reasons, Cascadia reported that a mid-July financial presentation showed revenue in the first half of 2024 higher than in 2023.

Turner’s separation agreement states he is unable to file a lawsuit against the port. As severance, the port agreed to pay Turner one month’s salary. Turner’s starting salary was $175,000 annually when he was hired in October, according to the port. 

Hogan wrote the port has not made any decisions about hiring another director of aviation. Emily Phillipe is listed as the deputy director of aviation on the port’s website. 

“Current staffing at Bellingham International Airport is well-equipped to handle airport operations during this transition,” he wrote. “The Port is confident in the capabilities and dedication of our team to maintain high standards of service and safety at the airport.”

This article was updated August 16 and August 19 to clarify that Kip Turner was let go from the position.