Cindy Nichol is the powerhouse behind Sacramento’s entire airport system—including SMF, Mather, Executive, and Franklin Field. As Director of Airports for Sacramento County, she’s leading a $1.3 billion transformation while running an operation that functions more like a city than a terminal.



On this episode, Cindy Nichol reveals what it takes to run an airport that operates like a city—and why SMF is preparing for the future.



✈️ How SMF is expanding to meet record passenger demand

🏗️ The strategy behind the SMForward capital program

💡 Why innovation and local partnerships are central to the airport’s future

🌍 What it will take to bring nonstop flights to Europe and Asia

🛠️ And how she empowers her team to lead with purpose and try new things



Whether you travel often or just want a look behind the curtain of how critical infrastructure really works—this episode is packed with insights on leadership, logistics, and long-term vision.



Website: https://sacramento.aero/scas

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/FlySMF/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SacIntlAirport

YouTube:  @sacramentointlairport5800  



🔥 Subscribe for more stories of entrepreneurship, innovation, and impact from Sacramento’s top leaders.



00:00 – Intro – The Backyard Advantage & Guest Introduction  

01:34 – Running an Airport Is Like Running a City  

03:14 – Top 5 Airport Complaints Game (Bathrooms, TSA, Food Prices)  

10:34 – Fixing Airport Food: Local Partnerships & New Offerings  

12:10 – Business Model for Concessionaires  

13:03 – Airport Workers: The Hidden Heroes  

19:00 – Why Baggage Handling Is Still a Challenge in Terminal A  

22:42 – What’s Working at SMF + $1.4B Expansion Overview  

23:58 – Skybridge to Replace Crowded People Mover  

26:00 – New Parking Garage: More Than Double Capacity  

27:41 – Public Art & Local Identity in the Airport  

30:29 – Adding 6 New Gates + More Public Art  

33:26 – Upcoming Rental Car Facility & Walkable Campus  

36:06 – Managing 4 Airports & a $1.4B Expansion  

38:45 – How Airline Fees Work & Airport Revenue  

39:51 – Drones, AI, and the Future of Airport Innovation  

41:29 – Chasing Nonstop Flights to Europe & Asia  

46:27 – Culture of Innovation & Empowering Staff  

47:49 – Accessibility Tech for Visually Impaired Travelers  

48:29 – Faster, Smarter Construction: New Delivery Methods  

49:09 – Closing Thoughts – Why SMF Just Works  





#MarkHaneyShow #CindyNichol #SacramentoAirport #SMF #Leadership #SMForward #Entrepreneurship #Innovation #sacramento 

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If this episode inspires you to be part of the movement, and you believe, like me, that entrepreneurs are the answer to our future, message me so we can join forces to support building truly great companies in our region. 

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Subscribe to my channel here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCom_​... 

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Mark Haney is a serial entrepreneur that has experience growing companies worth hundreds of millions of dollars. He is currently the CEO and founder of HaneyBiz 

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Instagram: http://instagram.com/themarkhaney​ 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/themarkhaney 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markehaney​ 

Website: http://haneybiz.com​ 

Audio Boom: https://audioboom.com/channels/5005273​  

Twitter: http://twitter.com/themarkhaney

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This video includes personal knowledge, experiences, and opinions about Angel Investing by seasoned angel investors.  This content is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as legal, tax, investment, or financial advice.  Nothing in this video constitutes a solicitation, recommendation, or endorsement.





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