Global Significance
Longtime Airlines for America SVP and General Counsel Announces Retirement
April 17, 2018
David Berg departs after 33 years; Association commences search to replace him
WASHINGTON, April 17, 2018 – After a career spanning more than three decades, tackling issues that ranged from taxation and regulation to protecting the safety of airline passengers and crewmembers, David Berg, Airlines for America’s senior vice president, general counsel & secretary announced his intent to retire at the end of June.
During his career at A4A, Berg managed industry litigation resulting in several significant rulings, including upholding Congress’ decision to prevent states from regulating airline services, recovering millions of dollars illegally diverted by an airport to cover general municipal expenses, and preventing DOT from auctioning landing slots. Berg also handled a number of critical industry regulatory matters, including the initiation of drug and alcohol testing of safety workers, rules implementing the Air Carrier Access Act, rules to ensure reasonable airport rates and charges and guidelines for the lawful use of revenue by airports.
“Dave played a critical role in successfully guiding A4A through numerous legal and regulatory challenges over the course of his career, the last 15 as general counsel. His deep understanding of the issues and his ability to develop and maintain relationships across multiple administrations earned him the confidence of his peers at the A4A member airlines and the aviation legal community at large,” said A4A’s President and CEO Nicholas E. Calio. “He has been a trusted adviser to me and this industry, and I thank him for his service and wish him the best in his retirement.”
“Many things make this industry special – the unyielding dedication to safety; the ability to absorb and overcome unbelievable challenges, from unprecedented terror attacks to unpredictable weather; and the willingness to jump in and help those in need,” Berg said. “It’s been rewarding to see this industry evolve over time and become a critical component of the U.S. economy and a driver of U.S. competitiveness, and to embrace the unique role it plays in our very mobile society, bringing families and friends together and maintaining our social fabric. I have been fortunate to play a small role in a great American industry.”