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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state government aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Its mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 14, 2024
Contact: Taylor Bryan
(202) 925-7345

Washington, D.C. (March 14, 2024) – Today, the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO), in partnership with National Aeronautic Association (NAA), announced the winners of the 2024 U.S. Youth Aviation Art Contest. The judging was conducted by representatives from: Aircraft Owners & Pilots Association (AOPA) Foundation; Equus Flight Academy/US Alt. Delegate to the FAI Education Commission; NAA; NASAO; Signature Flight Support; and the National Air & Space Museum.

This year, NASAO received over 150 pieces of artwork depicting peace in air sports from nearly half of the country’s states and territories. The annual contest is part of a larger international effort to inspire youth to illustrate the importance of aviation through art. Contest submissions were grouped into three separate age categories for judging allowing students ranging from 6 to 17 years old to compete. The 2024 theme was “Air Sports for a Peaceful World” which encouraged students to create artwork demonstrating how air sports can bring people of different backgrounds together, forming friendships and making the world a better place.

To qualify for the national contest, all artwork was first submitted to state-level competitions with the winning entries advancing for national consideration. Judging on the national level was based on artistic ability and portrayal of theme. The national winners have been submitted for the 2024 International Aviation Art Contest which will be judged in June by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale. 

View the winning entries here. 

NASAO congratulates the 2024 U.S. Winners:

Junior Category:
1st Place: Jasmine Lee | North Carolina, Age 9
2nd Place: Jeremy Zhao | New York, Age 8
3rd Place: Eric Shen | Virginia, Age 8

Intermediate Category:
1st Place: Sophia Qu | Washington, Age 13
2nd Place: Iris Xie | Virginia, Age 13
3rd Place: Stephanie Fu | Texas, Age 13

Senior Category:
1st Place: Isabel Chang | North Carolina, Age 17
2nd Place: Jihyeon (Elly) Han | Kansas, Age 14
3rd Place: Yeji Na | North Carolina, Age 17

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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state government aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Its mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.

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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state government aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Its mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.

From left to right: (top row) Pete Hearding, Joe Miniace, Shannetta Griffin, Greg Pecoraro, (bottom row) Michael Whitaker, and Kyle Wanner.

"Our recent meeting with the FAA Administrator was an incredible opportunity to highlight the valuable partnership that exists between NASAO and the FAA," stated NASAO Chair Kyle Wanner. "This MOU signing is another important step forward for all of our state aviation agencies, as we collectively work together to further collaborate with the FAA in order to strengthen and grow our nation's air transportation system."

NASAO has a longstanding partnership with the FAA, signing multiple MOUs over the years on an array of issue areas. In a testament to the success of this partnership, more MOUs have been renewed since the initial MOU was signed in 1996. 

This recently signed MOU seeks to address key issues through continued collaboration on federal and state levels. The MOU outlined key objectives, action goals, and the overall process and structure to work towards the stated goals.

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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Our mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.

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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Our mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.

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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Our mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.
 
National Association of State Aviation Officials
1390 Chain Bridge Road– #A106 • McLean, VA 22101
(202) 925-1337 • www.nasao.org 

“NASAO congratulates Michael Whitaker on his confirmation to be the next FAA Administrator and believes that his experience will help him to be an effective leader for the agency. State government aviation agencies have had a longstanding partnership with the FAA in supporting the National Aviation System and we look forward to continuing that partnership with Administrator Whitaker.” 

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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Our mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.
 
National Association of State Aviation Officials
1390 Chain Bridge Road– #A106 • McLean, VA 22101
(202) 925-1337 • www.nasao.org 

American Association of Airport Executives (AAAE), 
Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA), 
American Petroleum Institute (API), 
Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA), 
General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), 
Helicopter Association International (HAI), 
International Council of Air Shows (ICAS), 
National Air Transportation Association (NATA), 
National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO), 
National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) 

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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Our mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.

Washington, DC (October 18, 2023) — The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) applauded the swift action today by the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation in advancing the nomination of Michael Whitaker to be Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The nomination will now move to the Senate floor for a vote by the full chamber.

“NASAO is pleased to see that the Committee has moved quickly from its hearing on Mr. Whitaker to a vote on sending his nomination to the floor said Greg Pecoraro, NASAO President and CEO. “Mr. Whitaker is a widely respected leader in the aviation industry who can effectively bring his variety of experiences to bear in this position. We hope the full Senate will take up the nomination quickly and provide the aviation industry with the leadership and stability that can only come from a Senate confirmed Administrator.” 

Michael G. Whitaker is currently the chief operating officer of Supernal, a Hyundai Motor Group company designing an electric advanced air mobility (AAM) vehicle. In this role, Whitaker overseas all commercial and key business operations. Previously, Whitaker served as FAA Deputy Administrator from 2013–2016. There, he brought industry and government together to drive the transition of the nation’s air traffic control system from radar to a satellite-enabled surveillance technology (ABS-B).

NASAO sent a letter of support to the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. View the full letter here.

Washington, D.C. (October 13, 2023) – Seven leading aviation groups joined today to comment on a Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) notice proposing sweeping revisions to regulations that impact part 135 charter operators, including on-demand air carriers operating Department of Transportation (DOT)-authorized public charter operations, which provide vital air service to small communities. 

“Changes to regulatory definitions could have unintended negative consequences throughout the entire part 135 community—an established industry segment providing safe and secure transportation options that meet the diverse needs of thousands of communities across the nation,” wrote the coalition. 

In August, the FAA issued a Notice of Intent (NOI) suggesting potential revisions to the regulatory definitions of “on-demand operation,” “supplemental operation” and “scheduled operation” under 14 CFR Part 110. FAA regulations govern the operations of air carriers, while DOT part 380 regulations address economic authority for those offering public charters. Current regulations allow a part 380 operator to work with any air carrier, including on-demand carriers operating under part 135. 

“For more than 45 years, part 135 carriers have operated aircraft safely and reliably on behalf of public charter operators under DOT part 380, unlocking substantial public benefits and providing valuable air transportation to many communities that otherwise would not have commercial air service,” the aviation groups said in their filing.   

“Changing regulations could eliminate well-paying jobs at all levels of the industry while hurting economic competition, carbon emissions reduction, emerging technologies, aviation innovation, and service to small communities. Any changes to the regulation should be driven not by the economic interest of competitors, but by an identified safety need.” 

In putting forward the notice, FAA officials presented a data set pointing to the growth in flights conducted under part 380 over the past decade as the basis for the agency’s proposed regulatory review. However, the operational increase has come with no major incidents or accidents under the current regulatory framework, which makes the motive for the FAA’s action unclear. 

While the number of part 380 operations has increased over the past decade in response to declines in commercial airline service to smaller communities, those flights comprise a very small part of the more than 52 million total operations within the national airspace system in 2022. 

Comments to the FAA notice were submitted and co-signed by the Airline Passenger Experience Association (APEX), General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), Helicopter Association International (HAI), International Flight Services Association (IFSA), National Air Transportation Association (NATA), National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO), and National Business Aviation Association (NBAA).   

Today’s comments follow concerns expressed by several associations earlier this year about inaccurate characterizations of part 135 operators conducting part 380 public charter flights in response to one carrier’s economic application to the agency to launch such an operation. Read the coalition’s June 30, 2023 press release about part 135 flights operating under part 380 regulations. 

The groups are committed to a robust and comprehensive discussion about repercussions of any regulatory action, and recommend an aviation rulemaking committee to facilitate such discussion and consideration. 

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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Our mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.

“Mr. Whitaker is a widely respected leader in the aviation industry who can effectively bring his variety of experiences to bear in this position," said Greg Pecoraro, NASAO President and CEO. “He is an attorney, a former executive in the airline industry, and a former deputy administrator at the FAA, as well as a certificated pilot. Today, he is a leader at a company engaged in the advanced air mobility sector with a keen understanding of what is needed to bring this new and exciting sector to fruition. These experiences, combined with his demonstrated leadership and management skills should make him an effective leader for the FAA at a critical moment for our nation’s airports, airlines, and aviation-related businesses.” 

Michael G. Whitaker is currently the chief operating officer of Supernal, a Hyundai Motor Group company designing an electric advanced air mobility (AAM) vehicle. In this role, Whitaker overseas all commercial and key business operations. Previously, Whitaker served as FAA Deputy Administrator from 2013–2016. There, he brought industry and government together to drive the transition of the nation’s air traffic control system from radar to a satellite-enabled surveillance technology (ABS-B).

NASAO sent a letter of support to the U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation. View the full letter here.

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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Our mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

October 1, 2023

Contact: Taylor Bryan

(202) 925-7345

Washington, D.C. (October 1, 2023) - The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) is pleased to see that Congress has acted to adopt short-term funding for the U.S. Government and a temporary extension of the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Authorization. Both government funding and the FAA Authorization were due to expire at midnight on September 30, 2023.

“A partial government shutdown and the expiration of the FAA’s authorization would have been calamitous for the aviation industry and the nation’s economy” said Greg Pecoraro, NASAO’s President and CEO. “The nation’s state aviation agencies appreciate those members of the U.S. Congress who came together at the 11^th hour to prevent catastrophe. The FAA and other federal agencies play a critical role in managing and maintaining the largest, most complex, and safest aviation system in the world. “

NASAO reiterates its call for Congress now to move quickly to both pass a full-year funding bill and a long-term Reauthorization for the FAA to ensure that the FAA can continue to improve our nation’s infrastructure, advance innovation, and maintain the safety and efficiency of our aviation system.

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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Its mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 13, 2023

Contact: Taylor Bryan

(202) 925-7345

Rogers, Arkansas (September 13, 2023) – Yesterday, the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) announced members of the 2023–2024 Board of Directors at NASAO’s 92^nd Annual Convention & Trade Show in Rogers, Arkansas. The NASAO Board of Directors – comprised of NASAO’s Executive Committee and Regional Directors – will be led by Kyle Wanner of North Dakota as Chair.

"I am deeply honored to serve as the NASAO Chair for the upcoming year and am eager to lead and advocate for the interests of the members within the state aviation community," stated Wanner. "With a strong foundation of exceptional leadership over the years, NASAO is well-positioned to continue its efforts to foster meaningful and positive impacts within the ever-evolving field of aviation. I look forward to working closely with our outstanding staff, our state aviation leaders, and our valued business partners to address industry challenges, explore innovative solutions, and seize opportunities that will enhance our nation's air transportation system."

Members of the 2023–2024 NASAO Executive Committee include:

-      Kyle Wanner, ND – NASAO Chair

-      Martin Blake, IN – NASAO Vice Chair

-      Clayton Stambaugh, IL – NASAO Treasurer

-      Frank Farmer, AL – NASAO Secretary

-      David Ulane, CO – NASAO Immediate Past Chair

Members of the 2023–2024 NASAO Regional Directors include:

-      Tim McClung, IA – Central Region

-      Greg Campbell, VA – Eastern Region

-      Michael Trout, MI - Great Lakes Region

-      Denise Garcia, MA – New England Region

-      Kenji Sugahara, OR – Northwest Mountain Region

-      John Paul Saalwaechter, TN – Southern Region

-      Grayson Ardies, OK – Southwest Region

-      Kurt Haukohl, NV – Western-Pacific Region

The 2023–2024 NASAO Board of Directors was announced during a general session on Tuesday afternoon. The ushering in of the new board was commemorated by the passing of the gavel from NASAO Immediate Past Chair, David Ulane (CO), to Chair Kyle Wanner (ND).

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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Its mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 31, 2023
Contact: Taylor Bryan
(202) 925–7345

Washington, DC (July 31, 2023)– The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) announced the names of three recipients for the 2023 Henry Ogrodzinski (Henry O.) Scholarship. NASAO congratulates Benjamin Parham of Elizabeth City State University (Surf City, NC), Tanner Bowman of Purdue University (Trafalgar, IN), and John Laing of Purdue University (Milford, OH).

NASAO established the scholarship program in memory of Henry Ogrodzinski, who spent more than 17 years leading NASAO as its President & CEO from 1996 to 2013.  Ogrodzinski dedicated his life to higher education and academic achievement in aviation and aerospace. The scholarship program resides under the NASAO Center for Aviation Research and Education, the non-profit arm of NASAO.

“The three individuals selected for this year’s scholarship share a passion for aviation similar to that of Henry O.,” said Mike McHugh, Chair of the NASAO Center for Aviation Research and Education and Aviation Education Coordinator of the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission. “The NASAO Center hopes that these scholarships will help the awardees achieve their professional goals and advance the industry through their future accomplishments.”

“The future of aviation depends on a well-educated workforce,” said Greg Pecoraro, NASAO President & CEO. “NASAO is proud to honor the memory of its longtime President Henry Ogrodinski by helping to ensure bright young people with a passion for aviation are able to help make that future.”

For more information on the scholarship and application process, please visit NASAO's website.

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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Its mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.

National Association of State Aviation Officials
1390 Chain Bridge Road– #A106 • McLean, VA 22101
(202) 925-1337 • www.nasao.org

July 20, 2023

Contact: Taylor Bryan

(202) 925–7345

Washington, DC (July 20, 2023) – The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) applauded the U.S. House of Representatives for passing H.R.3935, Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act, which would reauthorize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and related programs through fiscal year 2028.

“NASAO is very pleased that the House has passed the Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act,” said NASAO President & CEO, Greg Pecoraro. “This forward-thinking legislation will provide a strong basis for managing the nation’s aviation system for the next five years to increase safety, improve infrastructure, and successfully integrate new technologies. We commend House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Sam Graves and Ranking Member Rick Larsen for their leadership in crafting a comprehensive, bipartisan bill. NASAO looks forward to Senate action on its own version of FAA Reauthorization, so that both bills can be reconciled, and the FAA be authorized to continue and advance its important work. The United States has always led the world in the aviation industry, and securing the status of the FAA is critical to continuing that leadership.”

The bill would increase investments in the nation’s public-use airports, especially for our general aviation airports which are the backbone of our national aviation system. It would also establish a grant program for state, local, and tribal governments to receive funds to purchase and use small drones for inspection of critical infrastructure; create a drone education and workforce training grant program to support training of small drone operations; direct FAA to take steps to safely integrate drones and advanced air mobility (AAM) into the airspace; call for a comprehensive review of aviation weather observation reporting systems, such as Automated Weather Observing Systems (AWOS) and aviation weather observers, which serve as an integral part of ensuring safety in the aviation system; and authorize the State Block Grant Program, a program that enables certain States to optimize federal and state funding for their airport systems.

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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state government aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Its mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.

National Association of State Aviation Officials 1390 Chain Bridge Road– #A106 • McLean, VA 22101 (202) 925-1337 • www.nasao.org

WASHINGTON, D.C. (June 27, 2023) – The National Association of State Aviation
Officials is pleased to announce the appointment of Taylor Bryan as Manager of
Marketing & Communications. Bryan recently graduated from The George Washington
University with a Masters Degree in Museum Studies. Originally from the birthplace of
aviation, Bryan has a passion for the industry and has worked for organizations such as
the National Museum of the United States Air Force, the National Aviation Hall of Fame,
the National Air & Space Museum, and the National Aeronautic Association.

“NASAO is excited to welcome Taylor Bryan to our team” said Greg Pecoraro, NASAO
CEO. “Taylor brings a wealth of experience in other aviation organizations to her new
role, as well as strong communications skills. Her addition to the team will allow us to
provide greater support to our members, as well as improve our connection with the rest
of the aviation community and those in the general public interested in aviation issues.”
Taylor can be contacted at tbryan@nasao.org.

The winners of the 2023 International Young Artist Contest were announced by its sponsor the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI). Young artists from Lithuania, USA and Japan received the first prizes in the three age categories of the 2023 contest. The participating countries in this year’s edition were China, Finland, France, Hungary, India, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Thailand and USA. The goal of the contest is to inspire youth to reflect on the importance of aviation and express their ideas through art.

Contest submissions are grouped into three separate age categories for judging, allowing students ranging from 6 – 17 years old to compete. The 2023 theme, “Air Sports and the Environment” encouraged participants to explore the ways that air sports can interact harmoniously with our environment.

To qualify for the U.S. national contest, all artwork was first submitted into state-level competitions, with the winning entries forwarded to NASAO for national award consideration. This year, NASAO received over 150 pieces of art from 20 participating states. Congratulations to the 2023 U.S. National and International winners!

View the 2023 U.S. winners and entries
View the 2023 international winning entries

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About the National Association of State Aviation Officials
NASAO is dedicated to representing the interests of the states and the public before policymakers at the federal level. Its goal is to ensure the nation has a safe, secure, efficient, and well-funded aviation system as a powerful economic engine for growth and job creation across the nation. NASAO is the only organization deeply invested in representing the public interest in all facets of aviation and airports. NASAO members organize, promote, and fund a wide variety of aviation programs across the nation.


Media Contact: Tracy MacDonald | (202) 925-7340 | tmacdonald@nasao.org 

This year, NASAO received over 150 pieces of art from 20 participating states. The annual contest is part of a larger international effort to inspire youth to illustrate the importance of aviation through art. Contest submissions were grouped into three separate age categories for judging, allowing students ranging from 6 – 17 years old to compete. The 2023 theme was “Air Sports and the Environment”, which encouraged students to create inspirational artwork showcasing how aviation can be a catalyst to protect the planet.

To qualify for the national contest, all artwork was first submitted into state-level competitions, with the winning entries advancing for national consideration. The national winners have been submitted for the 2023 International Aviation Art Contest, which will be judged in June by the Fédération Aéronautique Internationale. View the winning entries here. 

NASAO congratulates the 2023 U.S. Winners:

Junior Category:
1st Place: Yuham Lam – New Jersey, Age 9
2nd Place: Callie Hu – Virginia, Age 9
3rd Place: Ian Shan – Arizona, Age 9

Intermediate Category:
1st Place: Jihyeon (Elly) Han – Kansas, Age 13
2nd Place: Tongfei Karen Ji – Virginia, Age 13
3rd Place:  Renata Albano – Arizona, Age 10

Senior Category:
1st Place: Isabel Chang – North Carolina, Age 17
2nd Place: Audrey Song – North Carolina, Age 15
3rd Place: Cynthia Liu – Arizona, Age 14

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About the National Association of State Aviation Officials

NASAO is dedicated to representing the interests of the states and the public before policymakers at the federal level.  Its goal is to ensure the nation has a safe, secure, efficient, and well-funded aviation system as a powerful economic engine for growth and job creation across the nation. NASAO is the only organization deeply invested in representing the public interest in all facets of aviation and airports. NASAO members organize, promote and fund a wide variety of aviation programs across the nation.

Media Contact: Tracy MacDonald | (202) 925-7340 | tmacdonald@nasao.org

2022 NASAO Awards

During the convention, NASAO leadership named the recipients of the 2022 NASAO Awards, which honors state and individual contributions to aviation. The 2022 NASAO Award winners are:

Most Innovative State Program Award: Aerospace & Aviation Education Program - Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission

The award recognizes truly unique and service-oriented state aviation programs, projects, and activities. Many innovative aviation programs that began at the state level have spread to other states or in some cases have been adopted or accepted by the federal government and the aviation community. This year, NASAO recognized the Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission for its Aerospace and Aviation Education Program, which has impacted thousands of students with varying levels of awareness, exposure, and certification to better prepare them for a career in the aviation and aerospace industry in Oklahoma.

State Aviation Distinguished Service Award: Mike McHugh, Aviation Education Coordinator, North Dakota Aeronautics Commission
 
The award recognizes and honors state aviation personnel who have excelled in their service and dedication to aviation progress and development in their state. This year, NASAO recognized Mike McHugh for leading initiatives that enhance and advocate for aviation education throughout the state of North Dakota. His work has included creating an aviation education scholarship program, forming collaborative partnerships with multiple school systems to establish new high school aviation programs, establishing an annual Career Day Expo for high school students.

NASAO Center Aviation Education Program Award: Virginia Education and Outreach Program

The NASAO Center for Aviation Research and Education established an annual Aviation Education Program Award in 1993 to recognize the efforts of the state aviation agencies educating and motivating the public with aviation-related education programs. The Department of Virginia's Education and Outreach Program conducts outreach and education support to elementary, middle and high school students, with an emphasis on underserved groups. The program has partnered with local organizations to provide education and operational support for 1,000 Virginia Wing of the Civil Air Patrol cadets, help fund high school students gain flight time hours, send over 300 students to the NextGen Aviator's program that provides hands-on experiential learning on aircraft engine maintenance, among many other efforts.
 
NASAO Board Chair's Award: Mike McHugh, Aviation Education Coordinator, North Dakota Aeronautics Commission
 
Each year, the Chair of the NASAO Board selects a recipient based on their outstanding contribution to the association and support of the Board Chair. This year, Mike McHugh, Chair of the NASAO Center for Aviation Research and Education, was Mike McHugh, Chair of NASAO Center for Aviation Research and Education, was recognized for leading the development of a strategic plan, which establishes a vision and goals for the Center to achieve over the next several years.
 
NASAO President's Award: Shahn Sederberg, Communications & Multimedia Manager, Division of Aeronautics, Colorado Department of Transportation
 
Each year, the NASAO President & CEO selects a recipient based on their outstanding contribution to the association and support of the President's initiatives. This year, Shahn Sederberg was recognized for his unmatched contribution to NASAO’s graphics and multimedia activities.
 
NASAO will start accepting nominations for the 2023 NASAO awards in June. Learn more about the NASAO Awards. 

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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Its mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.

National Association of State Aviation Officials
1390 Chain Bridge Road– #A106 • McLean, VA 22101
(202) 925-1337 • www.nasao.org

Washington, DC (September 14, 2022) – The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) applauded the U.S. House of Representatives for passing the Drone Infrastructure Inspection Grant Act (H.R. 5315). The bill will be sent to the Senate for consideration.

“State aviation officials are very pleased to see this legislation pass the House. It represents a landmark in the ability of state, local, and tribal governments to access this exciting new technology,” said Greg Pecoraro, NASAO President and CEO. “This Congress continues to demonstrate an appreciation of how emerging aeronautical technologies can transform and contribute to the American economy and transportation system in ways we can’t yet imagine.”

The Drone Infrastructure Inspection Grant Act, introduced by Representatives Greg Stanton (D-AZ-9) and Garret Graves (R-LA-6), authorizes a grant program to state, local, and tribal governments to purchase drones for infrastructure inspection purposes and to community colleges/universities to support drone education and workforce training programs. NASAO urged House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee members to vote in favor of the bill at the committee’s mark up and urged House leadership to bring the bill to vote on the floor. A Senate companion (S.4744) was introduced last month by Senators Jacky Rosen (D-NV), John Boozman (R-AR), and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).

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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Its mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.

National Association of State Aviation Officials
1390 Chain Bridge Road– #A106 • McLean, VA 22101
(202) 925-1337 • www.nasao.org

• David Ulane, CO – NASAO Chair
• Kyle Wanner, ND – NASAO Vice Chair
• Marty Blake, IN – NASAO Treasurer
• Clayton Stambaugh, IL – NASAO Secretary
• Anthony McCloskey, PA – NASAO Immediate Past Chair
  

Members of the 2022–2023 NASAO Regional Directors include:

• Tim McClung, IA – Central Region
• Ashish Solanki, MD – Eastern Region
• TBA – Great Lakes Region
• Denise Garcia, MA – New England Region
• Jared Esselman, UT – Northwest Mountain Region
• Frank Farmer, AL – Southern Region
• Grayson Ardies, OK – Southwest Region
• Kurt Haukohl, NV – Western Pacific Region 

The 2022–2023 NASAO Board of Directors was announced during a general session on Tuesday afternoon. The ushering in of the new board was commemorated by the passing of the gavel from NASAO Immediate Past Chair, Anthony McCloskey (PA), to Chair David Ulane (CO).

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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Its mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.

National Association of State Aviation Officials
1390 Chain Bridge Road – #A106 • McLean, VA 22101
(202) 925-1337 • www.nasao.org

In signing on behalf of NASAO, Chair Anthony McCloskey, noted that the MOU on Aviation and Space Education (AVSED) closely tracks with the key priority of his term as Chair, encouraging NASAO’s role in this area through revitalizing the NASAO Center for Aviation Education and Research. McCloskey said, “NASAO and its state agency members welcome the FAA’s willingness to recommit to this joint effort to promote aviation education as a path to rewarding and important careers. Engaging young people in aviation is critical to the future of the industry and America’s leadership in aeronautics.”

Greg Pecoraro, NASAO’s President and CEO, observed that NASAO’s strong partnership with the FAA and its predecessor agencies has led to the safest aviation system in the world. Pecoraro said, “Regularly renewing this partnership is critical, especially as we look forward to exciting new advances in aeronautical technologies that will revolutionize the industry and how people access aviation”.

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NASAO established the scholarship program in memory of Henry Ogrodzinski, who spent more than 17 years leading NASAO as its President/CEO (from 1996 – 2013) and dedicated his life to higher education and academic achievement in aviation and aerospace. The scholarship program resides under the NASAO Center for Aviation Research and Education, the non-profit arm of NASAO.

“We had a great pool of applicants for the Henry O scholarship this year. We hope these scholarships will assist students in their education as they continue to share a lifelong passion and dedication to the aviation industry," said Mike McHugh, Chair of the NASAO Center for Aviation Research and Education and Aviation Education Coordinator of the North Dakota Aeronautics Commission.

NASAO President and CEO, Greg Pecoraro said, "Supporting the next generation of individuals seeking aviation careers continues to be a NASAO priority. The Henry O Scholarship Program is one effort by NASAO to accomplish that effort.”

For more information on the scholarship and application process, please visit NASAO's website.

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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Its mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.

National Association of State Aviation Officials
1390 Chain Bridge Road– #A106 • McLean, VA 22101
(202) 925-1337 • www.nasao.org

Washington, DC (July 13, 2022) – Today, Greg Pecoraro, President & CEO of the National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO), testified before the U.S. House of Representatives Aviation Subcommittee on how to help sustain existing general aviation airports and prepare for emerging technologies.

During his opening statement, Pecoraro said “NASAO is grateful for all Congress has recently done to keep the nation’s aviation industry alive and to begin rebuilding and improving our aviation infrastructure. But we are here to show you the need for more. Additional funding for AIP is needed to clear the $14 billion backlog of priority AIP-eligible projects needed through 2025 for GA, and other non-primary airports."

Pecoraro said, "As we prepare for a new era of aviation, general aviation airports will be the first staging grounds for these emerging technologies. Now that you have begun to rebuild America’s airports, we encourage you to finish the job, improve the airports we have and begin developing the airports of the future.”

On behalf of NASAO, Pecoraro made three key recommendations to Congress:

• Increase Airport Improvement Program (AIP) investment by $250 million each year during the next five years to a new authorization of $4 billion.
• Increase the maximum amount a general airport may receive from the AIP’s Nonprimary Entitlement (NPE) Program from $150,000 to $256,000 per year and correspondingly increase State Apportionment to ensure that an increase in NPE does not further reduce State Apportionment funds.
• Tasking the FAA with establishing a national standard to address AAM airspace coordination and control. Established standards would enable the system to expand more rapidly as AAM aircraft become certified while maintaining the appropriate level of safety.
  

Click here to view Greg Pecoraro’s full written testimony.
Click here to watch the recorded version beginning at 41:45 of the recording.

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NASAO is the nationally recognized voice for the public interest in aviation on behalf of the states and territories. We represent state aviation agencies in all 50 states, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Its mission is to encourage and foster cooperation throughout the public sector in the development and promotion of a national aviation system that safely and effectively serves the needs of citizens, commerce, and communities throughout the United States.