08/19/2025
✈️ Parker’s best kept secret, nestled over the hill is the Colorado River Indian Tribes(CRIT), Avi Suquilla Airport. From his office, Airport Manager Joshua Philipps enjoys a clear view of the airport runway stretching across the desert floor and the iconic view of “P” Mountain in the distance. At the helm of this unique facility, Philipps has transformed his years of military service and leadership into a role that blends aviation expertise with a deep commitment to the Colorado River Indian Tribes and the Parker community.
Josh grew up far from the desert, on a small dairy farm in Indiana owned by his family for generations. From daily farm duties and taking care of animals, he learned early on the value of hard work and responsibility. In 2001, Josh enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps and soon after transferred to the U.S. Army. His military career took him to Iraq, Afghanistan, and other locations around the world, where he developed a deep commitment to leadership, safety, and service. After traveling all over the U.S., Josh sought out the quiet and peaceful desert of CRIT and the refreshing Colorado River, making Parker his home. He first worked as a Senior Training Advisor with Metris Global, hosting active shooter and trainings for CRIT departments including CRIT PD. His experience in military aviation and security training eventually led him to a natural fit for Avi Suquilla Airport.
For Josh, what truly makes CRIT Air special is the employees behind it. “The staff are the backbone of the airport” he says, proudly recognizing he’s dedicated team. Assistant Manager Cindy Homer, who has served nearly 20 years, leads alongside Administrative Assistant Christina Johnson, Lead Technician Everett Babcock, Fuel Technicians Michael Carter and Jack Fisher, and ED&T youth Tamia Fisher and Candace James. Together this hard working crew keeps daily operations running smoothly, while continuously pursing professional development and certifications to ensure the airport continues to grow and operate efficiently.
The airport itself is unique, Avi Suquilla is one of the few tribal airports in the nation that supports a commercial side of operations. It hosts a variety of aircraft, from military A400s and T-6 trainers to private planes and Hawkers, and also serves as a base for free-fall training, parachuting, and full mission exercises for the military. Josh’s dedication extends beyond the runways. He is an active member of the Parker community, working closely with organizations like the Veterans of Foreign Wars, Together with Veterans program, and the Community Center for Parker. His efforts focus on supporting veterans, seniors, and youth, including programs that introduce local students to aviation and Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) opportunities. The Federal Aviation Administrations (FAA) scholarships and airport-hosted programs aim to inspire the next generation of aviators.
The airport also has a rich history that dates back to the 1920s, once serving as a base for Navy pilot training. It officially became tribal-owned in 1982, and through the decades, it has seen visits from senators, governors, and even famous celebrities. Today, CRIT Air continues to grow, with plans for expanded hangars and structural improvements on the horizon. Avi Suquilla Airport is more than a place for takeoffs and landings, it is a point of pride for the Colorado River Indian Tribes, and a facility where history and progress come together under the Arizona sky.
Article Written by CRIT Media Reporter Ariana Romero
Photography by CRIT Media Photographer Naythen Lowe
