WUFT | News and public media for north central Florida
Ferdinand Mehrlich new Gainesville Regional Airport CEO
By Aileyahu Shanes
April 16, 2026 at 9:48 PM EDT
While smaller than some of the bustling hubs in other cities, Gainesville Regional Airport is a staple for north central Florida travelers.
Originally built in 1940 as an army airfield, the airport has hosted two U.S. presidents — George W. Bush and Joe Biden.
And now, after almost 20 years, the airport is under new leadership.
Gainesville Regional Airport's new CEO Ferdinand Mehrlich officially started the job this week.
He was previously the executive director of aviation at the Texarkana Regional Airport in Arkansas.
WUFT's Ailee Shanes had the chance to sit down with Mehrlich and began by asking him what is often asked of newcomers to this area.
Why Gainesville?
Originally built in 1940 as an army airfield, the airport has hosted two U.S. presidents — George W. Bush and Joe Biden.
And now, after almost 20 years, the airport is under new leadership.
Gainesville Regional Airport's new CEO Ferdinand Mehrlich officially started the job this week.
He was previously the executive director of aviation at the Texarkana Regional Airport in Arkansas.
WUFT's Ailee Shanes had the chance to sit down with Mehrlich and began by asking him what is often asked of newcomers to this area.
Why Gainesville?