The Laughlin/Bullhead International Airport was the recipient of this year’s “Airport of the Year” award, sponsored annually by the MPD - Aeronautics Group of the Arizona Department of Transportation, (ADOT). ADOT presented the award at the 2011 Arizona Airports Association’s, (AzAA) annual Spring Conference, held this year in Laughlin.
After a thorough review by ADOT staff and multiple ballots, Laughlin/Bullhead International Airport was chosen because, among other things, it:
- Renovated terminal facilities by adding over 5,100 square feet for passsenger processing and screening
- Completed extensive runway rehabilitiation and safety improvements including asphalt replacement, taxiway extensions, new airfield lighting, and improved parking areas
- Installed an Automated Weather Observing System providing airport personnel and aircraft operators with the most advanced weather technology
- Invested over $16 million dollars in capital improvements
- Meets regularly with the airport tenants, providing and exchanging future plans and project information
- Experienced an increase in the demand to transport passengers; enplanements were up 11 percent to 120,850
- Supports more than 470,000 jobs with an annual payroll estimated at $14.7 according to a 2004 study
- Allows airport facilites to be utilized by other governmental organizations for training and contingency planning such as K-9 and military aviation units
- Teamed with the U. S. Marine Corps Reserves Toys for Tots Drive program which was distributed toys to over 123 families and 289 children
- Recieved a Certificate of Appreciation for the positive cooperation from the Transportation Security Administration
- Supported the aviation event of Legends Over the Colorado River which brought historical aircraft to the airport
- Improved the finanical position from near insolvency five years ago to a solid financial position
The selection criteria used by the ADOT - MPD - Aeronautics Group consists of accomplishments in the areas of community relations, airport management, airport maintenance activities as well as innovative activities and programs implemented at the airport.
Mr. David Gaines, Airport Director accepted the award on behalf of the Mohave County Airport Authority and airport staff. A sign will be erected near the airport announcing Laughlin/Bullhead International Airport as the 2011 “Airport of the Year.”
View ADOT Director John Halikoski's 2011 Airport of the Year announcement
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