Oct. 1, 2004

For more information contact:
Tim McClung
515-239-1689

Iowa DOT’s Aviation team receives national award

AMES, Iowa – The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) has awarded the Iowa Department of Transportation’s Office of Aviation with the 2004 Most Innovative State Program Award for the DOT’s efforts in a statewide general aviation security initiative. The award was announced Sept. 21,  at NASAO’s annual conference in St. Paul, Minn.

The general aviation security initiative coordinated by the Iowa DOT’s Office of Aviation in partnership with the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) finished its outreach phase in May 2004 with the completion of a statewide tour.  State and TSA officials visited all Iowa public-owned airports in an effort to take a proactive approach toward general aviation security. 

The initiative provided airports with a clear understanding of security issues and provided them simple-to-use reference materials regarding general aviation security. It also allowed airport and community members to ask questions and get involved firsthand in enhancing security at the state’s general aviation airports.

According to Michelle McEnany, director of the Office of Aviation, “Iowa’s airport officials are on-board with taking a proactive, common sense approach toward general aviation security. We were very pleased to partner with TSA officials from hubs in Moline, Des Moines, and Omaha. TSA was also extremely satisfied with the security initiative. The award from NASAO solidifies Iowa’s leadership position in enhancing general aviation security.”  

Henry Ogradzinski, President and CEO of NASAO, said “the award recognizes this outstanding general aviation security initiative. The Iowa program is an active and effective general aviation security program that can and should be emulated by other states. It was an honor and pleasure to present the Most Innovative State Program Award to the Iowa Office of Aviation. ”

Founded in 1931, NASAO represents state government aviation agencies, that serve the public interest in all 50 states, Guam and Puerto Rico.

For more information log on to iawings.com

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