Wicked Local Bedford
Posted June 23, 2013 @ 07:40 AM
Bedford, Mass. —
The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) announced that the Northeast Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives (NE/AAAE) has awarded L.G. Hanscom Field with the Balchen/Post Award for Outstanding Achievement in Airport Snow and Ice Control.
The award recognizes the dedicated efforts of "snow crews" in maintaining their airports in safe and operational status during the winter season. The Balchen/Post Award, named for pioneering aviators Wiley Post and Bernt Balchen, was recently presented at the 47th annual International Aviation Snow Symposium in Buffalo, New York.
Last winter Hanscom Field recorded more than 69 inches of snow; significantly more than the airport’s average of 47 inches. Crews responding to 17 storm events over the winter.
Hanscom received their award in the category of Large General Aviation Airport with over 50,000 annual operations.
"For airports operating in the Snow Belt, the Balchen/Post award is considered top honors for a job well done," said Hanscom Field Director Sharron Williams. "The importance of the [award] is that it is an endorsement by the pilots and businesses that depend on us to keep the airport open and functional during all weather conditions."
Prior to taking top honors this year, Hanscom Field last won the coveted award in 1991. Hanscom had received honorable mention recognition at the International Aviation Snow Symposium for three of the past four years.
To be considered for the award, an airport is recommended by the users of the airport. Hanscom received recommendations from the Independent Fixed Base Operators Association, Raytheon Company, Rectrix, and Swift Air. During the selection process, careful consideration is given to an airport’s in-depth preparedness, including their snow and ice control plan, equipment readiness, personnel training and overall safety awareness.
"Throughout a very difficult winter season, including a blizzard that crippled the East Coast, Hanscom’s snow crews demonstrated time and again that the interests of the aviation community are always their top priority," said Russell Arena, manager of aircraft operations at Raytheon Company. "The men and women charged with maintaining and operating the airfield did their absolute best to ensure a safe and efficient operation and for that we at Raytheon are thankful for their professionalism and dedication."
The International Aviation Snow Symposium award Selection Committee includes the Aircraft Owner and Pilots Association; Airlines for America; Airline Pilots Association; Federal Aviation Administration; Metro Washington Airlines Committee; National Business Aviation Association; and the Regional Airline Association.
"[Hanscom] excels in customer service, teamwork and sheer will power and throughout a very challenging winter, maintained the airport and allowed us to move our passengers and crews safely," said Swift Air Flight Operations Manager Tony Jobusch.
Source: http://www.wickedlocal.com
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