The Illinois Department of Transportation (IDOT) recently honored six airports with Airport of the Year awards at the Illinois Public Airports Association fall Conference in Galena.
The department took many factors into consideration including safety records, maintenance, a strong commitment to customer safety and satisfaction, promotion of aviation and educational events, outstanding partnership with IDOT, and cooperation and coordination with the state.
This year’s winner were Willard Airport, Champaign, Primary Airport of the Year; Lewis University Airport, Romeoville Reliever Airport of the Year; Mount Vernon Outland Airport, Large General Aviation Airport of the Year; Salem-Leckrone Field, Small General Aviation Airport of the Year; Tri-County Airport, Yates City, Private Airport of the Year; and Vertiport Chicago, Heliport of the Year.
“Illinois serves as the nexus of North America’s transportation network, with aviation playing a key role in moving passengers and freight around the state, country and world,” Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman said. “Our aviation partners, from massive international airports to smaller regional facilities to a single grass landing strip, are vital to our state’s economy and mobility. These awards represent our thanks for the services they provide.”
There are 100 public-use airports and heliports and more than 700 aviation facilities in Illinois.