Gainesville Regional Airport’s Operations Department is commended with an Airport Safety Mark of Distinction from the Federal Aviation Airports Division, Southern Region. The medal of excellence is for work done in advancement of airport safety as well as for the development of an integrated and involved department.
“I am proud of our Operations Department and the safety programs they have helped put in place,” airport CEO Allan Penksa says. “Safety is our number one focus and a team effort among all of our stakeholders. We are pleased to accept this award on behalf of all of them.”
The Operations Department is lauded for exceeding minimum standards as well as for being professional and well-trained. Also noted was proactive involvement with airport staff and the public by developing a number of safety programs. Cited by the FAA was the “ARFF Flyer,” a newsletter designed to facilitate training and communications between the airport and Gainesville Fire Rescue while keeping the community informed.
Airports are nominated for the Mark of Distinction by the Airport Certification Safety Inspector (ACSI). The Southern Region Airports Division Airport Certification team conducted follow-up on GNV’s nomination to determine eligibility. GNV also garnered the recognition in 2004. However, few airports receive the award. Four airports received the honor in 2011 and only one in 2010.
Caption: Ops crew members Mikaela Lunday, Jason Berger, GACRAA board member Mark Minck, Gordon Rowell, Ops Manager Shaun Blevins and CEO Allan Penksa on Wednesday, November 14, 2012.
