Sunport Ambassadors Recognized at Historic Landmark

ALBUQUERQUE – Today, volunteer Sunport Ambassadors were recognized at an annual luncheon to celebrate their outstanding service and receive key updates for their awareness. Among their many contributions, Ambassadors assist with directions to gates, bag claims, rental car shuttles, hotels, and other airport facilities. The luncheon was held at the Old Terminal Building to recognize over 100 volunteers, including the ABQ K9 Crew (30+ certified therapy dogs), who offer a unique, welcoming presence for travelers.

As frontline representatives of the Albuquerque International Sunport, the Ambassadors play a crucial role in enhancing the customer experience by providing important information and updates to the traveling public. Today, the volunteer Ambassadors were recognized for their contributions to the Sunport, the city and its place as a recognized business and tourism destination.

“The Sunport’s continued modernization and expansion are maximized through the key role our ambassadors play as the front-line representatives that introduce our city to the world,” said Mayor Tim Keller, “These volunteers, including the amazing K-9 crew, make Albuquerque’s hospitality shine through their dedicated service, creating heartwarming experiences that leave a lasting impression on every visitor they greet.

“As a 12-year-old I would ride my bike to the Sunport to see planes take off and land,” said Rudy Garcia, Sunport Ambassador. “Forty-eight years later, in 2017, I became an Ambassador to continue my love for the Sunport and its passengers. I enjoy being the face of the Sunport for all the passengers traveling through and need a friendly face to make their trip a memorable one.”

Key Highlights of the Ambassador program include:

• Volunteer Hours (2024): 1,887 total hours contributed by Sunport Ambassadors.
• Traveler Interactions (2024): 36,421 travelers assisted, showcasing exceptional hospitality.
• Ambassador Team: 104 volunteers, including both human and animal ambassadors.

The Sunport is an engine of economic growth and employment. With over 3000 employees, it’s a place of constant reinvention, from the Dream of Flight renovation project and the reimagined concessions program to the unfolding vision for commercial development, the Sunport reflects Albuquerque’s vibrant culture and commitment to providing economic opportunity.

Interested in becoming an Ambassador? Go to our website and apply! If you are interested in volunteering with your certified therapy dog (or would like information on how to become certified), please send an email to Doug Lutz, Sunport Volunteer Coordinator, at dlutz@cabq.gov.

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About the Albuquerque International Sunport
Owned and operated by the City of Albuquerque’s Aviation Department, The Albuquerque International Sunport is New Mexico’s largest commercial airport, welcoming over 5 million passengers each year. Served by eight major carriers, three cargo carriers and one commuter airline, the Sunport offers nonstop service between ABQ and 30 destinations, with worldwide connectivity. The Albuquerque International Sunport is the Gateway of New Mexico.