Northern Air Cargo Appoints Mark Lester as Permanent President and CEO
Alaska-based freight carrier Northern Air Cargo has appointed Mark Lester as its new president and CEO, effective September 21. He will succeed interim leader Dave Karp, who took over in March 2025 during a period of financial challenges for the company. Lester brings extensive experience from roles at aerospace firms like Merrick & Co., Alaska Aerospace Corp., and Doss Aviation. Northern Air Cargo is part of Saltchuk Resources, based in Seattle. The airline has undergone strategic changes recently, including exiting long-haul routes to focus on intra-Alaska and Hawaii operations. Last year, it returned several freighters to lessors and reduced its fleet size. Despite rising costs—likely due to lease termination penalties—the company reported a 15% increase in operating profit to $15 million for the period ending March 31. Lester's appointment is seen as significant given his background in safety-critical operations, which aligns with NAC’s focus on reliable freight services. The change comes at a time when Northern Air Cargo competes directly with Alaska Airlines and Lynden Air Cargo.
Tickers: $NAC
Topics: Aviation Logistics Management Transition