A lot of snow fell on Chicago Executive Airport this past winter - more than twice the normal snowfall for the winter season. And, still, the airport remained open for business, nonstop, through the entire frigid ordeal.
In recognition of that accomplishment, the airport has received the Balchen/Post Award, Honorable Mention, "for outstanding achievement in airport snow and ice control." The award, which is presented by the Northeast Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives, is named for aviators Col. Bernt Balchen (1899-1973) and Wiley Post (1914-1996).
Balchen was a former member of the French Foreign Legion, a pilot with the Norwegian Naval Air Force, a test pilot for Fokker aircraft and a pilot with Commander Richard Byrd's first Antarctic Expedition in 1928. Post was General Chairman of the International Aviation Snow Symposium for 20 years and an aviator since 1936.
Probably the biggest factor that helped us (Chicago Executive) receive the award is that we stayed open all winter," said Airport Operations Coordinator Kealan Noonan. "We had more than 80 inches of snow where the normal snowfall is 37 inches and we didn't shutdown at all - no closures of the airport."
Chicago Executive has a fleet of snow-removal vehicles including large broom trucks that are maintained at the ready when the snow flies. Twelve-hour work shifts are commonplace during snow and ice storms.
Not merely a matter of removing snow, keeping airport runways and taxiways open requires a proper use of elements for melting ice. The airport staff conducts runway friction surveys to ensure there is sufficient traction for safe operation of aircraft and vehicles.
Noonan said it's a world-wide award based on four factors:
• Degree of in-depth preparedness
• Effectiveness of snow- and ice-control program
• Timeliness and accuracy of communications during snow- and ice-control events
• Post-storm activities
Chicago Executive previously earned the award for the winter of 2004-05.
Source: http://www.chicagotribune.com
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