Leadership Transition at ADF

“ADF has a long and rich history of advocacy on behalf of our membership, the dispatch profession and the aviation industry at large. As the next generation of technology dawns, it is vital to aviation safety that we remain at the vanguard of advocacy to advise and consult those who are creating that technology in the way only airline dispatchers can. With that in mind, I have made the decision to move my role into one that can focus solely on working with government and industry to provide that advice and consultation, ensuring that we remain not only relevant in the conversation but prominent within it. Effective today, May 8th, I am stepping down as the ADF President so that ADF can have leadership that will allow for the organization to continue its multifaceted approach in the advocacy and outreach spaces. Miguel Reyes will assume the role of President and I ask that you give him your full measure of support as he moves forward in the role.

I’m not going anywhere, in fact you’ll be hearing more from me in the very near future as I am able to devote my time and effort solely into lobbying. I appreciate the support you have given; it has been an honor and a privilege to serve as ADF president and I know that the group is in good hands as we head into the future. Please feel free to reach out to me at any time.

Talk to you soon!”
Jim Starnes
ADF VP, Government Affairs

“My name is Miguel Reyes, and I am an aircraft dispatcher for American Airlines. I am honored to accept the responsibility of serving as President of the Airline Dispatchers Federation.

I want to thank Jim Starnes for his leadership as President, his dedication to this organization, and his continued volunteerism in his new role as Vice President of Government Affairs.

The world around us is changing rapidly — and that makes the aircraft dispatcher more essential than ever. Safety and the welfare of the traveling public are not just priorities; they are the foundation of everything we do.

ADF exists for one purpose: to represent the interests, the voice, and the future of aircraft dispatchers across the United States and the broader aviation industry. We are an all-volunteer, not-for-profit advocacy organization — and that independence is our strength.

I intend to carry forward our mission of advocacy, engagement, and professional representation, building on the work of those before me while actively pursuing new opportunities and partnerships across aviation.

Our focus remains clear: ensuring dispatchers have a seat at the table in every critical discussion shaping the future of this industry. We will continue to advance safety, elevate education, and raise professional standards.

We will demand greater recognition for the indispensable role dispatchers play and work to strengthen our standing within nationwide operations.

We stand on the shoulders of those who built this profession from its earliest days, dating back to 1938. Now the next generation must rise to meet the challenges of a new era in aviation. With the support of our volunteers, we will continue to be that voice — in government, in regulation, and in the practices that define how this industry operates. I ask every dispatcher who cares about this profession to stay engaged, stay involved, and continue lending a hand.”

With respect and dedication,
Miguel Reyes
ADF President