The Santa Maria Public Airport District Names Martin Pehl, A.A.E., as General Manager
April 28, 2023
SANTA MARIA, CA – The Santa Maria Public Airport District has named Martin Pehl, A.A.E., as General Manager. In this position, Mr. Pehl will work for the Board of Directors of the Santa Maria Airport (SMX). He will be responsible for executing contracts, permits and commercial agreements, including aircraft, mobile home and storage leases, professional and specialized services, and license agreements. He began his new position on April 2, 2023.
Mr. Pehl has a strong aviation background in master planning, development, airport property management, construction and maintenance coordination and revenue development. Previously, he has held the role of Airport Manager for Merced Regional Airport and Napa County Airport. He has also worked for San Luis Obispo County as Assistant Airports Manager.
Mr. Pehl received his bachelor’s degree in Aviation from San Jose State University. He is an Accredited Member (A.A.E.) of the American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE) and a Certified Airport Executive (C.A.E.) of the Southwest Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives. He is also a private pilot.
