Captain David Bourne
Partner Albertine Enterprises
Captain David Bourne brings over 40 years of transformative leadership in aviation markets, government relations, and labor advocacy, both domestically and internationally. As a seasoned aviator and innovative strategist, he has played a pivotal role in fostering safety, advancing airline-labor relations, and influencing policy to support the aviation industry’s growth and sustainability.
Captain Bourne’s aviation journey began at 13 as a Cadet in the Civil Air Patrol, igniting a passion that grew into a decades-long career. He accumulated over 14,000 hours of flight time and holds an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification with type ratings in the Boeing 747-400, Gulfstream IV, and several other aircraft.
In May 2008, Captain Bourne became the Director of the Airline Division of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT). Under his visionary leadership, the division experienced unprecedented growth, tripling its membership by prioritizing organizing efforts, legislative action, and member advocacy. He represented a diverse range of aviation professionals, including pilots, mechanics, flight attendants, and ramp agents, working with U.S. and international regulatory bodies, Congress, and industry leaders.
Captain Bourne’s aviation journey began at 13 as a Cadet in the Civil Air Patrol, igniting a passion that grew into a decades-long career. He accumulated over 14,000 hours of flight time and holds an Airline Transport Pilot (ATP) certification with type ratings in the Boeing 747-400, Gulfstream IV, and several other aircraft.
In May 2008, Captain Bourne became the Director of the Airline Division of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT). Under his visionary leadership, the division experienced unprecedented growth, tripling its membership by prioritizing organizing efforts, legislative action, and member advocacy. He represented a diverse range of aviation professionals, including pilots, mechanics, flight attendants, and ramp agents, working with U.S. and international regulatory bodies, Congress, and industry leaders.
Some of his accomplishments as Director include:
Securing a $450,000 FAA Workforce Development Grant to train transitioning military personnel and promote aviation careers in underserved communities.
Establishing the Teamster Aviation Mechanics Coalition (TAMC) as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit to advocate for aviation maintenance professionals.
Launching a nationwide STEM outreach program that introduced aviation careers to nearly half a million students, educators, and parents.Partnering with Spartan College to offer significant tuition discounts for Teamster families pursuing aviation careers.
Implementing an innovative electronic grievance tracking system to enhance efficiency and transparency.
Previously, Captain Bourne was a Boeing 747-400 Captain for Atlas Air Worldwide, where he led critical efforts in labor relations, including securing the first collective bargaining agreement in the airline's history and navigating bankruptcy proceedings to protect pilots’ rights. His experience also includes roles as Chief Pilot for the AFL-CIO’s Building Trades Division and as a corporate jet Captain conducting international operations.
Captain Bourne’s contributions extend beyond aviation. A graduate of George Mason University with a degree in Psychology, he served on Lockheed Martin’s Aerospace IT Roundtable and was a nominee for Business Travel News’ Top 25 Most Influential Executives in the Airline Industry. He is a member of the International Aviation Club, the Aero Club of Washington, and the International Trade Federation.
Through initiatives like advocacy for workforce development, support for STEM education, and lobbying efforts to address outsourcing and regulatory issues, Captain Bourne exemplifies AEI’s mission of fostering innovation, connectivity, and growth across industries. His legacy reflects a tireless commitment to empowering individuals, advancing the aviation industry, and building a sustainable future.
Captain Bourne’s contributions extend beyond aviation. A graduate of George Mason University with a degree in Psychology, he served on Lockheed Martin’s Aerospace IT Roundtable and was a nominee for Business Travel News’ Top 25 Most Influential Executives in the Airline Industry. He is a member of the International Aviation Club, the Aero Club of Washington, and the International Trade Federation.
Through initiatives like advocacy for workforce development, support for STEM education, and lobbying efforts to address outsourcing and regulatory issues, Captain Bourne exemplifies AEI’s mission of fostering innovation, connectivity, and growth across industries. His legacy reflects a tireless commitment to empowering individuals, advancing the aviation industry, and building a sustainable future.