Ohio Aviation Association Announcements

OAA Members Register Today for Free to Attend a PFAS Litigation Webinar for Airports on March 25, 2026

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 23:10:25 GMT

Airports throughout the United States continue to address Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) concerns linked to long-term use of FAA-required firefighting foam (Aqueous Film Forming Foam or AFFF). PFAS Exposure has been linked to cancer and thyroid disease, reproductive and developmental harm, along with immune system and organ damage.

With litigation and the negotiation of national settlements underway and new regulatory requirements banning PFAS use, airports now have potential opportunities to recover costs tied to retrofitting firefighting and containment systems, remediating contaminated soil and groundwater, retraining personnel, and safely disposing of AFFF stock.

There is a multi-district federal court case that is being litigated that involves the various damages that have been caused by PFAS and related chemicals. One important facet of this litigation involves the impact of those chemicals on airports. As a substantial settlement may soon be reached involving these claims, it makes sense for many airports to enter into the litigation as plaintiffs in the next few weeks. Because, in litigation like this, claimants who have filed complaints prior to a settlement being reached often fare better in the settlement process, airports should carefully assess the costs and benefits of entering into such litigation immediately. This webinar will help with that assessment.

The law firm of Grossman & Kelly is working with public entities to pursue claims under this settlement. Kegler Brown Hill + Ritter is serving as local counsel in this endeavor. You will hear the latest status of the PFAS litigation from them during the session.
At this online seminar, OAA members will learn about:

The status of the national PFAS litigation and what it means for airports
What is required to enter the litigation?
What are the potential benefits to entering the litigation now vs. waiting for a settlement?
Steps airports can take now to prepare for potential filings
What environmental testing is required to support PFAS related claims?
How PFAS related damages and likely recovery amounts are be calculated?

This webinar is designed for airport executives, counsel, operations directors, environmental managers, and other airport professionals who oversee facilities, infrastructure, or compliance efforts. By working with our team, your organization can take a streamlined, no-cost path to see if you are eligible for funds. There are no upfront fees or expenses involved in participating.

Teams Meeting Information

https://teams.microsoft.com/meet/28033523960207?p=zdw4sDuOvoc3ziOb1p
Meeting ID: 280 335 239 602 07
Passcode: ru2RL2TF

RSVP

Please register for this free event by Monday, March 23, by clicking the RSVP button below or by contacting Parin Pandya at ppandya@keglerbrown.com or (614) 255-5511.

RSVP and Join Us on March 25

Final Extension for Lowest Individual Rates - Prices Increase After Friday, March 13 - Details Released on Conference Agenda - Secure Your Registration, Sponsorship, Exhibitor, and Hotel Spot Today Before It's Too Late!

Wed, 11 Mar 2026 23:09:06 GMT

Summary:

2 days until individual conference rates increase (extended to March 13)
5 days until the hotel room block closes (March 16)
26 days until the golf outing and conference begins April 6

The Ohio Aviation Association is happy to announce the 2026 Annual Conference dates will be April 6-8, 2026. theme, From First Flight to Future Skies - Keeping Ohio a Global Aviation Leader.

New Year, New Venue - The OAA Board of Directors have selected the Hilton Downtown Columbus for the conference next year. We are excited because the new venue presents us with additional opportunities for sponsors, exhibitors and attendees!

UPDATED Agenda at a glance

Monday, April 6, 2026

OAA Pre-Conference Golf Outing - Golf Club of Dublin (8-2p.m.)

3pm - OAA Annual Business Meeting

5-7pm - OAA Welcome Reception - Stories on High Rooftop Restaurant/Bar Overlooking Columbus

Tuesday, April 7, 2026

7am - Registration opens

8:00 - 9:00am - State Legislative Panel Discussion

9:00 - 10:00am - The role of Airports in Aerospace and AAM Economic Development

10:00 - 10:30a.m. Networking Break with Sponsors and Exhibitors

10:30 - 11:30 Breakout sessions

- Issues and Opportunities of Electric Aircraft in Flight Instruction

- How to Implement a Master Plan

11:30 -12:00pm Networking Break with Sponsors and Exhibitors

Noon - 1:00pm - Lunch - Speaker TBA

1:00 - 2:00pm - ODOT Office of Aviation Update and Ohio Airport System Plan

- Jim Bryant, Aviation Administrator, ODOT Office of Aviation
- Mark Groves, Aviation Planner, ODOT Office of Aviation
- John Stains, Airport Engineer, ODOT Office of Aviation

2:00 - 3:00pm Breakout Sessions

- Workforce and Economics Progress: Butler/Middletown Regional Airport

- What to Do with Your PCI

3:00 - 4:00pm Breakout Sessions

- Driving Safety Through Smart NOTAM Management

- Considerations When Selecting a Location for New Aviation Fueling Facility

4:00 - 6:00pm - Aviation Career/Job Fair with Sponsors, Exhibitors and Aviation Job Providers

Wednesday, April 8, 2026

Registration opens at 7a.m.

8:00 - 9:00am - General Session - TBA

9:00 - 10:00am - General Session - TBA

10:00 - 10:30am - Networking Break with Sponsors and Exhibitors

10:30 - 11:30am - Commercial Service Airport Panel

11:30 - 12:30pm Breakout Sessions

- Leveraging ARCP to Solve Your Airport's Challenges

- TBA

12:30 - 1:30pm Awards Luncheon and Scholarship Presentations

1:30 - 2:00pm - Networking Break with Sponsors and Exhibitors

2:00 - 3:00pm Breakout Sessions

- Caution Helicopter Wake Turbulence

- FAA Design Standards: What Airport Managers Actually Need to Know

3:00 - 4:00pm - Breakout Sessions

- Managing Your Assets

- Digital Twins for Airports

4:00 - 5:00pm - General Session - TBA

5p.m. Prize Drawings and Conference Concludes

OAA Testifies as a Proponent on HB 333 - the Airspace Protection Act

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 23:08:26 GMT

On Tuesday, March 10, 2026 the Ohio Aviation Association Executive Director, Tony Fiore, provided proponent testimony on HB 333, the Airspace Protection Act.

In sum, HB 333:

updates state law to align with current federal law and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations under part 77 regarding navigable airspace and obstructions to air navigation.
requires any person that must file notice with the FAA regarding the proposed construction or alteration of a structure or object of natural growth because the structure or object exceeds federal obstruction standards also to apply for a permit with the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT).
authorizes the notice filed with the FAA regarding the proposed construction or alteration to serve as the application for the state permit, as opposed to filing a separate application as under current law.
requires ODOT to conduct its permit study and review concurrently with the FAA’s review and to grant, deny, or grant with a waiver from obstruction standards the ODOT permit within 75 days after the FAA issues its final determination.
specifies when ODOT must grant or deny a permit based on both the FAA’s final determination and the study and review conducted by ODOT and any impacted airport.

OAA has been working with ODOT's Office of Aviation, AOPA, legislators and other stakeholders for nearly 9 years to clarify state law regarding navigable airspace around Ohio's airports.

To help illustrate the need for HB 333 Mr. Fiore provided each member with an airport in their district (or one close by) where tall structure issues will continue to be unresolved unless HB 333 becomes law. The first page of each shows the 5 imaginary surfaces ODOT’s permitting process is currently limited to while the remaining diagrams show areas that need to be covered as part of the airport’s obligations under Part 77. He also gave credit to the ODOT-Office of Aviation staff that helped pull together the maps for each airport.

Rep. Bernie Willis (HD 74) – Springfield-Beckly Airport (SGH)
Rep. Jack Daniels (HD 32) – Akron-Canton Airport (CAK)
Rep. Roy Klopfenstein (HD 82) – Defiance County Memorial Airport (DFI)
Rep. Brian Lorenz (HD 60) – Delaware Municipal Airport – Jim Moore Field (DLZ)
Rep. Riordan McClain (HD 87) – Marion Municipal Airport (MNN)
Rep. Kevin Miller (HD 69) – Licking County Regional Airport – Treneff Field (VTA)
Rep. Johnathan Newman (HD 80) – Darke County Airport (VES)
Rep. Justin Pizzulli (HD 90) – Alexander Salamon Airport (AMT)
Rep. Monica Robb Blasdel (HD 79) – Columbiana County Airport (02G)
Rep. Michele Grim, Ranking Minority (HD 43) – Toledo Express Airport – Eugene F. Kranz (TOL)
Rep. Ismail Mohomed (HD 03) – The Ohio State University Airport (OSU)
Rep. Elgin Rogers (HD 42) – see TOL as well
Rep. Dan Troy (HD 23) – Northeast Ohio Regional Airport (HZY)

OAA hopes that the House Transportation Committee will continue to hold hearings on the bill to move it out of committee and off the full House floor before the primary election. This will give enough time for the Senate to hold hearings in May and June, pass the bill and have it on Governor DeWine's desk for his signature before the summer recess begins.

Click here for a copy of HB 333.

Click here for a copy of OAA's proponent testimony given by Tony Fiore.

Click here for a copy of the AOPA proponent testimony given by Kyle Lewis.

Click here to watch a video recording of the hearing. The hearing on HB 333 begins at 17:31. The OAA testimony begins at 37:06. The hearing on the bill concludes at 59:04.

Help The Ohio Aviation Foundation Reach our $10,000 Matching Grant Goal before March 31, 2026 - Support Aviation Scholarships!

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 23:09:34 GMT

SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT: The Ohio Aviation Foundation has received a commitment to match dollar-for-dollar sponsorships up to $10,000!!! We are getting closer to our goal and currently at $3,000 - Pitch in to help us support aviation scholarships and take advantage of doubling your impact with this matching grant before March 31, 2026!

Start off the 2026 Ohio Aviation Association Annual Conference hitting the links and help raise funds for aviation scholarships.

The pre-conference golf outing at the Golf Club of Dublin.

Registration is $125/person or $500 per foursome. (note registrations are not considered sponsorships and only cover the cost of the golfer for this event)

Some of the sponsorship options online include:

$500 Economy Sponsorship (hole sponsor)
$750 Economy Plus
$1,000 Business Class Sponsorship
$2,500 First-Class Sponsorship

The golf outing award winners and sponsors will be recognized at the OAA Annual Conference, so show your support by registering your foursome and secure your sponsorship today!

Click here to register and sponsor.

Reserve Your Hotel Room for the Annual Conference Before the Block is Full!

Fri, 06 Mar 2026 00:07:01 GMT

Click the button below to reserve your room under the OAA negotiated room rate of $189 per night before they are all gone! This rate is available for 3 days prior to and 3 days after the conference, so come in early or stay late at a great nightly rate!

Click here to reserve your room

Want Year Round Exposure? Become an Annual OAA Sponsor

Tue, 03 Mar 2026 00:05:50 GMT

Click the button below to become an annual sponsor with year round exposure as well as exhibitor space and complimentary registrations or become an exhibitor only for the conference.

Do you have an aircraft or simulator to display? We may have space...

Be sure to check out the different levels of sponsorship below. Each level includes exhibitor space and complimentary registration for the conference and much more. Annual sponsorship enhances your brand on the OAA website, in newsletters (like this one) and regional airport events. The higher level gives your company more runway!

Click here to sponsor or become an exhibitor

Aviation Students Don't Miss Your Chance to Attend the OAA Aviation Career/Job Fair - Free Registration (and Food) and Your Chance to Win Airline Gift Cards

Sat, 28 Feb 2026 00:05:10 GMT

On Tuesday, April 7, 2026 at the Ohio Aviation Association Annual Conference we will be hosting a Aviation Career/Job Fair for aviation students looking for opportunities in the aviation industry. This event will take place from 4-6p.m. at the Hilton Downtown Columbus. Admission for students that are OAA members is FREE for this portion of the conference.

We think meeting your potential future employer (and free food) is motivation enough to register, but here is another reason to attend our first ever aviation career fair. We will be raffling off at least three (3) airline gift cards to students in attendance. You must be present to win - no exceptions.

Click here to become a OAA Student Member (Free)

Click here to register as a student for FREE to attend the Job Fair

CALLING ALL AVIATION EMPLOYERS!!! Just want to participate in the career/job fair? We have space for you.

Thu, 26 Feb 2026 00:04:17 GMT

OAA has space at the career/job fair for aviation employers that want to be onsite for just this part of the OAA conference. The $300 registration as a career/job fair table exhibitor only provides table space on Tuesday, April 7 from 4:00-6:00pm (with extra time for setup and teardown) for employers that wish to be included in the OAA job fair, but not the rest of the conference. Please register today and send us your logo to include in the career/job fair material for students.

Hotel rate available: Those students and employers attending the career/job fair only can take advantage of the hotel room rates listed below, but don't delay. Once the room block is full the rates go up!

Space is limited due to fire code, so don't delay and register today!

Click here to register as an employer for job fair only

Interested in serving on the OAA Board? Apply today - Deadline March 23, 2025

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 00:03:14 GMT

If you would like to be considered for an open Director position on the Board, please complete the application before March 23, 2026. Please contact Amanda McGee, Airport Manager for Findlay Airport (FDY) and Chair of the OAA Administration and Finance Committee at amcgee@findlayohio.gov or Tony Fiore, OAA Executive Director at tony@ohioaviation.org with any questions.

Click here to fill out the Board of Directors Application

Want to Recognize Someone in Aviation? The OAA Award Nomination Window is Open - Deadline March 23, 2026

Sat, 21 Feb 2026 00:02:30 GMT

The OAA Annual Awards honor Ohio aviation industry leaders who have made outstanding contributions to furthering the goals of aviation in Ohio. You are invited to nominate individuals or organizations in one or more of the categories listed below. Recipients are honored at the Annual Ohio Aviation Conference each year. Join us at our Annual Conference ceremony held during the conference May 6-8, 2025!

Submission Requirements

Any OAA member or organizational member in good standing may nominate an individual or an organization. To make the most of your nomination, provide a concise statement as to why your nominee should be recognized. Tell us how they exemplify the goals and ideals of the Ohio Aviation Association! If your nominee is selected, we will notify you and the nominee and begin working on the presentation of these awards for the Annual Conference. The award ceremony will be held on Thursday, May 8, 2025 - the final day of the conference. Please submit one application for each award category.

The award categories are:

Airport of the Year
Airport Manager of the Year
Aviator of the Year
Airport Business of the Year
OAA Business Member of the Year
Aviation Student of the Year

Click here to be directed to more information on the OAA website and to submit a nomination by March 23, 2026.

Capital Budget Bill Community Project Applications Due to House and Senate Members by Thursday, March 12

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:01:44 GMT

The 136^th General Assembly has released the capital budget bill community project application. This application to both the Ohio House Representative and Ohio Senator whose district

Contains the potential project. Applications are due to member offices by Thursday, March 12, 2026.

The OAA held a member only webinar back in September 2025 to provide guidance on capital bill projects. Capital bills include appropriations for the repair, renovation, reconstruction and construction of capital assets of state agencies, colleges, universities and school districts.

OAA members are encouraged to fill out the form provided below and submit the projects to their House and Senate members as soon as possible before the deadline. It’s also good to look at the list of previous projects below and work with a “nexus” state agency, such as a higher educational institution, that would be supportive of the project.

2026_0224 OAA Newsletter - 136th GA Capital Budget Application.pdf

2022-23	Ashland County Airport Authority Terminal and Flight School Project	KSU – Kent State University	$150,000
2022-23	Knox County Regional Airport	OSU – The Ohio State University	$150,000
2022-23	Armstrong Air and Space Museum (Auglaize County)	FCC – Ohio Facilities Construction Commission	$100,000
2022-23	Aircraft Mechanic Training Center (Montgomery County)	SCC – Sinclair Community College	$375,000
2022-23	Vienna Air Heritage Park (Trumbull County)	DNR – Ohio Department of Natural Resources	$500,000
2021-22	Allen County Airport Communications	LTC – Rhodes State College	$300,000
2021-22	Knox County Regional Airport	OSU – The Ohio State University	$900,000
2021-22	Crawford Auto Aviation Museum	FCC – Ohio Facilities Construction Commission	$750,000
2021-22	Rickenbacker Runway Upgrades	ADJ – Adjutant General	$611,000
2021-22	Rickenbacker Area Mobility Center	CTI – Columbus State Community College	$1,000,000

Tips for Successfully Securing Project Funding

Federal ADA Website Compliance Requirements Impact All Public Entities, Including Airports

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 00:00:46 GMT

Under the new federal rule, government websites must be fully ADA compliant by April 24, 2026. This means our websites must be accessible to individuals using assistive technologies such as screen readers and other accessibility tools.

Some key compliance items include items such as videos- must include captions or subtitles, all buttons, links, and images must have proper labels / alt text, no inaccessible drop-down menus or navigation features, PDFs and posted documents must be readable by assistive technology, forms, calendars, and interactive content must be accessible.

The ADA has published a helpful “first steps” guide. Click here to access this guide.

For those looking to evaluate their current website, this free tool is a good starting point: https://wave.webaim.org/

It’s worth noting that website accessibility is increasingly becoming an audit, legal, and risk management issue, not just an IT concern. Early planning will make this much easier and help avoid last-minute scrambles or compliance exposure.

Airport Questionnaire for OAA Member Geo-Mapping Project - Your Airport Response Needed As Soon As Possible

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 00:00:06 GMT

Dear Ohio Aviation Association Members,

We’re pleased to announce that the Ohio Aviation Association has purchased full access and integration of Spatial Engage for all dues paying members. This innovative platform will allow each member airport to:

Access a contextual map of their airport and link it to our master state association map,
Create one private map to engage stakeholders,
Support master plan promotion, operations, and long-term sustainability efforts.

Ohio airports are a doorway to our communities. As your association we want to help you get noticed, funding, support, stakeholder engagement, connect us together, visibility, provide a way show to data, and move us to the next level of communication. Check out the soft launch of this new tool for Ohio airports on the OAA homepage - www.ohioaviation.org. ;

Spatial Engage will be presenting what we are doing as an association at our upcoming conference in April.

In an effort to complete as much back end work as possible, we kindly ask that you click here to complete a QUESTIONNAIRE before as soon as possible. There are only a few questions so it should only take you a few minutes to complete.

Eventually, as a paid member, you will all get access to your own map portal which will be explained to you at an onboarding webinar before the annual conference. That session will guide you through logging in and making the most of your Spatial Engage access.

The OAA is committed to ensuring our aviation community remains a national leader in forward-thinking aviation protection, investment, and long-term sustainability. Airports—regardless of size—are critical to the economic development and vitality of the communities they serve.

You may recall that Spatial Engage presented at the April 2025 Ohio Aviation Conference, where they demonstrated their unique expertise in community engagement and visual storytelling. Their specialization and technology are unmatched, helping airports effectively communicate their value and vision.

At a time when we face pilot shortages, rising fuel costs, and staffing challenges, it’s more important than ever to embrace tools that help Ohio’s airports and aviation industry thrive.

We also wish to congratulate Spatial Engage on their successful appointment as the official engagement platform for the 2030 Summer Olympics in Australia — a testament to their global leadership and innovation.

For a local perspective on effective this tool is, please reach out to Dave Gal (Cambridge Airport Manager), who can share his firsthand experience with Spatial Engage.

Additionally:

Advanced Air Mobility (AAM): Spatial Engage is the world leader in AAM visualizations and communications, supporting airports expanding into new mobility initiatives.
Lake Erie Region Airports: For airports with flights to Pelee Island or Canada, Spatial Engage already powers Pelee Island’s tourism and airport mapping, enabling seamless collaboration across the border. Click here to see how the airport becomes the portal to the local community and a tool to drive economic development within the community.

Think of Spatial Engage as a shared communication platform — that makes collaboration and storytelling easier than ever.

If you have any questions or require support, please contact:

John Clark – Spatial Engage Liaison - Ph 1-800-986-9409 (Direct Line)
Dave Gal – Cambridge Airport Manager - Ph: 740 432-3726
Tony Fiore – Executive Director, OAA - Ph. (614) 462-5428

We look forward to helping every Ohio airport leverage Spatial Engage to build stronger communities, attract investment, and ensure a sustainable aviation future.

FAA Publishes Draft Transition Plan to Unleaded Aviation Gasoline; OAA Providing Step-By-Step Guide for Members Who Want to Submit Public Comment

Fri, 23 Jan 2026 23:56:33 GMT

In January 2026 the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) published a draft transition plan to unleaded aviation gasoline for public comment. The comment period ends March 13, 2026.

Currently, aviation gasoline (AvGas) is the only transportation fuel in the United States that contains TetraEthyl Lead (TEL), a lead-based additive that has been added to AvGas since 1921 to boost octane ratings and prevent engine damage and knocking at higher power settings. According to the FAA as of Fall 2025, 100-octane low lead (100LL) is the most used AvGas for spark ignition piston-powered aircraft. While many piston-engine aircraft designs are best suited for 100LL, due to evolving market factors and public health considerations the FAA initiated transition efforts from 100LL to unleaded aviation fuels.

The 2024 FAA Reauthorization Act (the Act) Section 827 directed the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to continue to partner with industry and other Federal government stakeholders in carrying out the mission of the industry-government initiative, Eliminate Aviation Gasoline Lead Emissions (EAGLE), and take such actions as may be necessary to facilitate:

safe elimination of the use of leaded aviation fuels by piston-engine aircraft in the United States by the end of 2030 (end of 2032 for Alaska) without adversely impacting the safe and efficient operation of the impacted, general aviation (GA) fleet;
approval of the use of unleaded alternatives to leaded aviation gasoline for use in all piston-engine aircraft types and piston-engine models;
implementation of the requirements relating to the continued availability of aviation gasoline;
efforts to make unleaded aviation gasoline widely available for purchase and use at airports in the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS);

development of a Transition Plan to Unleaded Aviation Gasoline (Transition Plan)

The FAA’s stated goal in providing transition plan is to comply with the Act and provide a nationwide plan to support a safe and orderly transition to unleaded fuels. This plan is provided with an understanding that many of the factors that affect the ultimate transition are market driven. The decisions made by private individuals and companies could have a significant influence on the ultimate transition. The FAA also acknowledges that the process of the transition will continue to evolve as 2030 approaches, more information becomes available, and therefore may require an update to the Transition Plan at a later date.

We have provided a step-by-step guide below if you would like to review the transition plan and provide public comment to the FAA.

Step-by-Step Submission Guide:

Go to the FAA's Aviation Safety Draft Documents page.
Scroll down under "Air Certification Service (AIR) Draft Documents" click on "Publications" to find under "Draft Document" the "Draft FAA Transition Plan to Unleaded Aviation Gasoline" .
Download the Matrix: Download the accompanying "Comment Matrix".
Fill Out Your Comments: Enter your feedback directly into the matrix.
Email Your Submission: Send the completed matrix to 9-AVS-AIR670-AVGAS@faa.gov before the March 13, 2026 deadline.

For additional information, please contact:

Paul Wrzesinski, PhD.

Senior Technical Specialist, Aviation Fuels

Telephone (M): 817-201-6726

Email: Paul.J.Wrzesinski@faa.gov

On a side note, we are excited to welcome back representatives from the FAA-ADO to the 2026 OAA Annual Conference in April. The ADO staff to Be sure to get your registration and hotel reservation in as soon as possible to join us at the conference in April!

ODOT - Office of Aviation Releases Supplemental Grant List and Plans to Present System Plan Update at OAA Conference

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 23:58:42 GMT

On January 14, 2026, the ODOT - Office of Aviation released the FY 2026 Ohio Airport Improvement Program, Project list for Supplemental Direct Grants to General Aviation Airports.

OAA and its members worked hard to advocate for more infrastructure funding opportunities for Ohio airports in the last state operating budget cycle. We appreciate ODOT's support for opening the door for such supplemental grant opportunities for fuel and hanger projects around the state. The list of approved projects are below.

Airport	Project Description	Total Project Value	Sponsors (Local) Share	State Approved Amount
Clinton Field (I66)	Construct T-Hanger	$800,000	$200,000	$600,000
Geary A. Bates – Jefferson County Airpark (2G2)	AvGas System Installation	$641,500	$64,150	$577,350
Morrow County (4I9)	New 4-Unit T-Hanger	$914,325	$164,325	$750,000
Northeast Ohio Regional (HZY)	AvGas System Installation	$562,000	$56,200	$505,800
Pickaway County Memorial Airport (CYO)	Fuel Tank Replacement	$543,000	$54,300	$488,700
			Total	$2,921,850

Did you know that the Office of Aviation has been undergoing a comprehensive review of the system of airports in Ohio for the last few years? They plan to release their report in March and will be presenting at the 2026 Ohio Aviation Association Annual Conference April 6-8, 2026 at the Hilton Downtown Columbus. Don't miss your chance to hear all of these important updates by registering for the conference today! Sponsorship, exhibitor and registration information is below and on the the OAA website: www.ohioaviation.org.

Call for Presentation Abstracts - 2026 OAA Annual Conference - April 6-8, 2026

Tony Fiore — Fri, 02 Jan 2026 21:13:13 GMT

The deadline for submissions is Monday, February 10, 2026. Early submissions help the conference committee determine topics and speakers, so get your presentation abstract in early!

Primary contacts will be notified of proposal status on or before Monday, March 10, 2026.

Click here to submit a presentation abstract.

2026 Happy New Year from the OAA

Tony Fiore — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 20:53:32 GMT

As we reflect on this past year, we are filled with gratitude for the incredible work you do and the positive impact you have in the aviation industry in Ohio. Your dedication and passion inspire us every day. We are honored to work with so many aviation professionals across the state and nation to advance airports and the aviation industry.

On behalf of the Ohio Aviation Association, we wish you and your loved ones a joyful holiday season and a new year filled with peace, health, prosperity and continued success. Safe travels wherever an aircraft may take you! Thank you for all that you do to make a difference!

Senate Committee Advances S. S. 2503, the ROTOR Act to Address ADS-B Compliance and Air Traffic Safety

Tony Fiore — Fri, 24 Oct 2025 04:21:14 GMT

The U.S. Senate Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation favorably reported S. 2503, the ROTOR Act, introduced by Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) along with Sen. Jerry Moran (R-KS), Chairman of the Subcommittee on Aviation, Space, and Innovation; Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN); Sen. Ted Budd (R-NC); Sen. Shelly Moore Capito (R-WV); Sen. Roger Marshall (R-KS); Sen. Eric Schmitt (R-MO); Sen. Tim Sheehy (R-MT); and Sen. Todd Young (R-IN). The bill would enhance oversight of helicopter routes near commercial service airports, require quarterly reports on ADS-B Out compliance, and study potential improvements to the airspace around DCA.

The OAA and several other organizations communicated with members of the committee, including Sen. Bernie Moreno (R-OH) on several concerns about amending provisions of S. 2175, the Pilot and Aircraft Privacy Act, introduced by Senators Ted Budd (R-NC), Tim Sheehy (R-MT) and Dan Sullivan (R-AK), into the bill.

S. 2503, the ROTOR Act – OAA supports this legislation as currently drafted

This legislation:

Prohibits the Army from turning off location-transmitting equipment on various helicopter flights near airports.
Sets a deadline for relevant aircraft to install ADS-B In technology no later than the end of 2031.
Requires safety reviews at major airports nationwide rather than only at DCA as the original bill would have required.
Strengthens oversight of mixed air traffic and flight routes near commercial service airports and requires quarterly reports on ADS-B Out compliance, annual DOT Inspector General audits, and a safety review of potential improvements to airspace safety around DCA.

S. 2175, the Pilot and Aircraft Privacy Act – OAA is opposed to the bill as currently drafted. Concerns surrounding the bills potential to limit an airports’ rights to collect fees in order to support and maintain infrastructure is a concern for Ohio airports. OAA is committed to work with supporters of S. 2175 in order to develop language that will not raise operational concerns for airports.

OAA Airport Compensation Survey Now Available - Please Take a Few Minutes to Complete

Tony Fiore — Fri, 08 Aug 2025 21:45:29 GMT

The Ohio Aviation Association invites you to participate in this airport compensation survey. The survey helps all airports across the state better understand job classifications and duties as well as compensation and benefits to attract and retain the best and brightest talent at our airports. Please take a moment to complete the survey questions below. The results will be available to members of the association once the results are tallied. Note: The question related to the size of your airport relates to the ODOT – Office of Aviation classification. These include Air Carrier, Level 1, Level 2, Level 3 and Level 4. This is also the way OAA designates its membership. Click here to confirm your airport classification.

Your response is important to the validity of this survey. The more responses we receive, the more accurate the results will be for those who want to utilize the data for their airport recruitment and retention efforts.

All information collected will be held in complete confidence. No personal information will be shared when the survey results are aggregated and released to OAA membership. This survey is intended to provide information of OAA members to ensure they are providing competitive compensation and benefits to attract and retain talent at Ohio's public-owned, public-use airports.

Click here to take the survey.

Annual Golf Outing Set for September 26 at the Golf Club of Dublin: Registration and Sponsorship Open!

Tony Fiore — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 23:14:21 GMT

It's that time of year to dust off the golf clubs and register to attend the annual Ohio Aviation Association and Ohio Aviation Foundation Golf Classic. This year the outing will be held at the Golf Club of Dublin. This is our annual fundraiser for aviation scholarships awarded at our annual conference in the spring. Please join us this year with one or more foursomes and please consider sponsoring a hole or other part of the event. Sponsorships and donations are the primary way we raise funds for our annual scholarships, so please consider this event in your annual charitable giving. The Ohio Aviation Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization for tax purposes. REGISTER NOW!

OAA Thanks Legislature for Advancing Airport Infrastructure Funding in State Operating Budget

Tony Fiore — Thu, 26 Jun 2025 20:19:09 GMT

On Wednesday, June 25, the Ohio House and Senate favorably passed Am. Sub. HB 96, the state operating budget. The bill is now with Governor Mike DeWine to decide what stays in and what comes out before it becomes effective upon his signature. The governor has until midnight on Monday, June 30 to sign before the fiscal year begins on July 1, 2025.

When the dust settled and the votes were taken Ohio airports made enormous advancements in addressing airport infrastructure needs around that state.

Senate Passes State Operating Budget without House Airport Infrastructure Funding Gains

Tony Fiore — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 20:36:32 GMT

On Wednesday, June 11, the Ohio Senate passed the state operating budget, HB 96. Unfortunately, all of the gains made in the Ohio House version of the bill for airport infrastructure funding were removed and not reinserted before passing out of the Senate. The Ohio House voted not to concur in the Senate changes which sends the bill to a conference committee to work out the differences over the next two weeks.

President Trump Signs Travel Ban Targeting 12 Countries

Tony Fiore — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 18:50:03 GMT

On Wednesday, June 4, President Trump signed a proclamation banning travel into the United States for individuals from a dozen countries, citing national security concerns.

The proclamation is similar to a travel ban Trump instituted in his first term. It fully restricts the entry of nationals from Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.

In addition, it partially restricts entry into the U.S. for nationals coming from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela.

The proclamation makes exceptions for nationals from all 19 of those countries who are lawful permanent residents of the United States or existing visa holders and individuals “whose entry serves U.S. national interests.

The travel ban proclamation comes after Trump on his first day in office signed Executive Order 14161 that called for increased vetting and screening of migrants entering the United States, citing national security concerns.

The president has taken numerous actions in his first four months in office to crack down on both the flow of migrants at the southern border and legal pathways into the United States.

Click here for a copy of the travel ban.

Watch YouTube Video: President Donald J. Trump Signs Travel Restrictions Executive Order

Acting FAA Administrator Chris Rocheleau Testifies Before U.S. House Appropriations Committee

Tony Fiore — Fri, 06 Jun 2025 18:45:23 GMT

On June 4, 2025, Christopher Rocheleau, Acting Administrator of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), testified before the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing, and Urban Development regarding the FAA's Fiscal Year 2026 budget request. The FAA is seeking $22 billion in new funding, supplemented by $5 billion in previously enacted

Rocheleau emphasized the FAA's commitment to maintaining the safest airspace in the world while preparing for future challenges. He urged the committee to support the budget request to ensure the U.S. remains a global leader in aviation.

appropriations, totaling $27 billion to enhance the safety and efficiency of the National Airspace System (NAS).

Key priorities outlined in the budget include a historic $4 billion investment in Facilities & Equipment to modernize air traffic control systems and address emerging technological challenges. This includes $1 billion to upgrade outdated telecommunications infrastructure to a modern Internet Protocol-based network and $450 million to launch the Radar Replacement Program, aimed at replacing aging radar systems to improve surveillance and reduce delays.

The FAA is also addressing the air traffic controller shortage with a $97.3 million allocation to recruit and train up to 2,500 new controllers in FY 2026. Efforts include streamlining hiring processes, increasing starting salaries for trainees, and expanding opportunities for military controllers.

Click here for a copy of Acting Administrator Rocheleau’s testimony.

Click here to watch the testimony.

New Derelict and Abandoned Aircraft Law Supported by OAA Takes Effecting on April 9, 2025

Tony Fiore — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 04:01:08 GMT

On April 9, 2025 a new law to address derelict and abandoned aircraft around Ohio will become effective. The bill, HB 77, also addresses the use of unmanned aerial vehicles in Ohio.

This is a significant win for the Ohio Aviation Association and the 104 public-owned, public use airports OAA represents. For years (in some cases decades) derelict and abandoned aircraft have been plaguing airports across Ohio.

Some of these aircraft have become hazards on our public-owned, public-use airports. They also detract from operations resulting in lost revenue. These aircraft stall efforts to attract businesses to locate their operation at a public airport. SB 206 provides reasonable timeframe for the airport and aircraft owners, robust notification procedures, and reasonable criteria to ensure that only aircraft that are abandoned or derelict can be disposed of by public airports.

Click here for a copy of HB 77.

Click here for a copy of OAA's testimony on SB 206, the bill originally introduced to address derelict and abandoned aircraft.

OAA Testifies in House Finance Committee, Asks House To Increase Airport Infrastructure Funding

Tony Fiore — Fri, 14 Mar 2025 03:47:52 GMT

On Thursday, March 13, 2025, the Ohio Aviation Association testified in support of HB 96 (Stewart), the general operating budget, in the House Finance Committee.

Tony Fiore, Executive Director of the OAA, provided testimony summarizing the existing funding in the the general operating budget, HB 96, and transportation budget, HB 54 (see chart above). Mr. Fiore asked the committee to keep the existing $10 million allocated to the Ohio Airport Improvement Program (AIP). He also asked the committee to include several amendments to address many issues facing airports.

The first amendment would adopt language that the House passed in the transportation budget to require all aviation fuel tax collected by the state go back into airport infrastructure projects. The second would increase the AIP funding by $5 million to be used for Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act projects. The third amendment would allocate $4 million into the Ohio Department of Commerce - Bureau of Underground Storage Tanks (BUSTR) to be used by Ohio airports to replace and remediate existing underground aviation fuel tanks. The forth would add $10 million for ODOT-Office of Aviation to use for hanger and tarmac development on Ohio airports. The final amendment would create a $10 million fund in the Ohio Department of Development for commercial service airports to enhance baggage claims, ticketing, retail and security areas within the airport.

The aviation fuel tax fund language is of critical importance for Ohio airports and the infrastructure projects to maintain the state's aviation assets. The fund will consist of money appropriated to it by the general assembly and transfers from the petroleum activity tax fund. It also states that the fund shall be used by the office of aviation to support the Ohio airport improvement program that provides financial support to publicly owned-public use airports in Ohio. In addition, all revenue from the tax as measured by calculated gross receipts derived from the sale of motor fuel used exclusively in the operation of aircraft shall be used to fund airport improvements.

The House is expected to adopt changes to HB 96 and pass it out of the committee and full House within the next few weeks before sending the bill to the Senate for additional hearings. The Senate is expected to hold hearings on the bill in late April through the end of May or early June before passing its version. Any differences in the House and Senate version will be worked out in a conference committee in mid-June. The final version is expected to be considered and passed by both the House and Senate before the end of June and sent to Governor DeWine for his signature before June 30, 2025.

Click here for a copy of the OAA House testimony.

Click here to view a video recording of the House hearing. The OAA testimony begins around the 4 hour mark, but was not available at the time of this publication.

SFY 2026 Ohio Airport Improvement Program | Direct Grant Application for General Aviation Airports Now Available - Deadline May 1, 2025

Tony Fiore — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 03:54:27 GMT

Airport Managers, Sponsors, and Consultants! ODOT - Office of Aviation has opened the window for the Fiscal Year 2026 Ohio Airport Improvement Program – Direct Grant Application for General Aviation Airports.

Click here for the announcement Letter FY26 DGP
Click here for the application procedures
BlackCat Aviation web-portal at: Log In - Black Cat Aviation

To access the New Application Procedure through the Office of Aviation home page, select “Direct Grant Application” that includes eligibility and selection criteria and instructions for applying for a Grant. All grant selection criteria and application material can be downloaded from the web page or is also available from within the State’s BlackCat Aviation Data and Grant Management portal.

The deadline to submit applications to the Office of Aviation is May 1, 2025.

Alexander Salamon Airport: Request for Statement of Qualifications

Tony Fiore — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 14:52:17 GMT

The Adams County Board of Commissioners anticipates receipt of funds through the Federal Aviation Administration, Ohio Department of Transportation, Office of Aviation, State of Ohio for improvement at the Alexander Salamon Airport. It is anticipated that the proposed project will be accomplished over a period of up to five years. Qualified design professional interested in being considered for this work are invited to submit a State of Qualifications to provide professional engineering and planning services. Click here for full details.

OAA Testifies in Senate Transportation Committee, Asks Senate To Increase Airport Infrastructure Funding

Tony Fiore — Tue, 04 Mar 2025 20:30:00 GMT

On Tuesday, March 4, 2025, the Ohio Aviation Association testified in support of the transportation budget as HB 54 (Stewart) in the Senate Transportation Committee.

Tony Fiore, Executive Director of the OAA, provided testimony citing the existing funding in the transportation budget, HB 54, and the general operating budget, HB 96 (see chart above). Mr. Fiore asked the committee to keep the House adopted amendment that would require all aviation fuel tax collected by the state go back into airport infrastructure projects.

The provision, found in Section 4561.03, creates the Ohio Airport improvement fund in the state treasury. The fund shall consist of money appropriated to it by the general assembly and transfers from the petroleum activity tax fund. It also states that the fund shall be used by the office of aviation to support the Ohio airport improvement program that provides financial support to publicly owned-public use airports in Ohio. In addition, all revenue from the tax as measured by calculated gross receipts derived from the sale of motor fuel used exclusively in the operation of aircraft shall be used to fund airport improvements.

The Senate is expected to adopt changes to HB 54 and pass it out of the committee and full Senate next week. Any differences in the House and Senate version will be worked out in a conference committee. The final version is expected to be considered and passed by both the House and Senate before the end of March and sent to Governor DeWine for his signature before April 1, 2025.

Click here for a copy of the OAA Senate testimony.

Click here to view a video recording of the Senate hearing. The OAA testimony begins at 1:14:14 and runs through 1:27:55.

Click here for a copy of the OAA House testimony.

Click here to view a video recording of the House hearing. The OAA testimony begins at the start of the hearing through minute 22:33.

Transportation Budget (HB 54) Passes House 97-0; Senate Hearings Continue in March

Tony Fiore — Fri, 28 Feb 2025 20:00:00 GMT

On Wednesday, February 26, 2025, the Ohio House passed the Governor’s proposed transportation budget as HB 54 (Stewart). The vote was 97-0.

Tony Fiore, Executive Director of the OAA, provided proponent testimony on February 12, 2025 in the House Transportation Committee. Fiore cited the existing funding in the transportation budget, HB 54, and the general operating budget, HB 96 (see chart above). Mr. Fiore provided the committee with a proposed amendment that would require all aviation fuel tax collected by the state go back into airport infrastructure projects.

The House adopted the amendment prior to HB 54 being voted out of the House. The provision, found in Section 4561.03, creates the Ohio Airport improvement fund in the state treasury. The fund shall consist of money appropriated to it by the general assembly and transfers from the petroleum activity tax fund. It also states that the fund shall be used by the office of aviation to support the Ohio airport improvement program that provides financial support to publicly owned-public use airports in Ohio. In addition, all revenue from the tax as measured by calculated gross receipts derived from the sale of motor fuel used exclusively in the operation of aircraft shall be used to fund airport improvements.

Click here for a copy of the OAA testimony.

Click here to view a video recording of the hearing. The OAA testimony begins at the start of the hearing through minute 22:33.

House Finance Committee Chair Brian Stewart (R-Ashville) said the plan is to adopt the Operating budget amendments are due on Friday, March 14, Stewart said, noting his goal is for the budget to pass on the House floor on Wednesday, April 9.

Interested in serving on the OAA Board? Apply today - Deadline April 1, 2025

Tony Fiore — Sat, 15 Feb 2025 01:15:40 GMT

The Ohio Aviation Association relies heavily on a Board of Directors to provide guidance and hands-on effort at events, webinars, etc. There will be a few board positions available for a 3-year term beginning at the OAA Annual Conference May 6-8, 2025. If you would like to be considered for an open Director position on the Board, please complete the application before April 1, 2025 and submit it to Tony Fiore, OAA Executive Director at tony@ohioaviation.organd Lisa Dalpiaz, with the Akron-Canton Airport and Chair of the OAA Administration and Finance Committee at ldalpiaz@akroncantonairport.com.

Click here for more information and to to apply.

FAA-ADO Scheduling Airport Meetings at Annual Conference

Tony Fiore — Sat, 15 Feb 2025 01:14:01 GMT

The Ohio Aviation Association is happy to announce that the Federal Aviation Administration-Area District Office in Detroit will be scheduling individual airport meetings at the annual conference again this year. But don’t delay.

Step 1 – Register for the annual conference (see links above)

Step 2 – E-mail the FAA-ADO at the following address to schedule a time during the conference May 6-8, 2025: 9ACEDETADOMailI@faa.gov.

We cannot wait to see you in a few months at the conference. We appreciate the FAA-ADO staff for taking the time to provide this convenient way to schedule time with airports during the conference.

OAA Testifies on Transportation Budget; Proposes All Aviation Fuel Tax Revenue go back into Airport Infrastructure Projects

Tony Fiore — Sat, 15 Feb 2025 01:02:08 GMT

On February 12, 2025, Tony Fiore, Executive Director of the Ohio Aviation Association provided proponent testimony in the Ohio House Transportation Committee on the Ohio House introduced the Governor’s proposed transportation budget as HB 54 (Stewart).

Mr. Fiore cited the existing funding in the transportation budget, HB 54, and the general operating budget, HB 96.

ALI 777471 – Airport Improvements – State – appropriates $10 million in each fiscal year (no change)
ALI 777472 – Aviation Improvements – Federal – This is flat funded at $405,000 in each fiscal year.
ALI 777475 – Aviation Administration has a modest increase in FY26 to $6,973,124 and $7,106,246 in FY27.
ALI 777615 – County Airport Maintenance – $620,000 in FY26 and $620,000 in FY27.
ALI 772456 – Unmanned Aerial Systems Center – appropriates $500,000 in FY26 and $500,000 in FY27. This is a 102% increase from FY25.
ALI 777477 – Aviation Infrastructure Bank – State DOT – appropriates $2.4 million in each fiscal year. This is flat funded from the current fiscal year.

Mr. Fiore provided the committee with a proposed amendment that would require all aviation fuel tax collected by the state go back into airport infrastructure projects.

Click here for a copy of the OAA testimony.

Click here to view a video recording of the hearing. The OAA testimony begins at the start of the hearing through minute 22:33.

House Finance Committee Chair Brian Stewart (R-Ashville) said the plan is to adopt the transportation budget sub bill on Tuesday, Feb. 18. Operating budget amendments are due on Friday, March 14, Stewart said, noting his goal is for the budget to pass on the House floor on Wednesday, April 9.

OAA members: Visit the members only page for a more detailed analysis of the budget provisions.

FAA-ADO Scheduling Airport Meetings at Annual Conference

Tony Fiore — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 18:50:15 GMT

Step 1 – Register for the annual conference (see links above)

Step 2 – E-mail the FAA-ADO at the following address to schedule a time during the conference May 6-8, 2025: 9ACEDETADOMailI@faa.gov.

We cannot wait to see you in a few months at the conference. We appreciate the FAA-ADO staff for taking the time to provide this convenient way to schedule time with airports during the conference.

President Trump Executive Order Rescinded - Good News for Airport Improvement Projects

Tony Fiore — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 18:48:33 GMT

President Donald J. Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance were officially sworn into office on Monday, January 20, 2025. Among many Executive Orders one in particular entitled "Unleashing American Energy" prescribed limitations on disbursements of Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) funds. It directed federal agencies to "immediately pause the disbursement of funds" from the IRA and the Bipartisan Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA).

On Wednesday, January 22, the White House Office of Management and Budget (OMB) clarified that the pause "only applies to funds supporting programs, projects or activities that may be implicated by the policy established in Section 2 of the order." This includes funding related to climate mitigation and incentives for electric vehicle charging - not road, bridge or airport projects.

On January 27, 2025, OMB released a memorandum further detailing the temporary pause of agency grant, loan, and other financial assistance programs. The temporary pause was intended to give the Administration time to review agency programs and determine the best uses of the funding of those programs consistent with the law and the President's priorities. All agencies were instructed to submit to OMB detailed information on any programs, projects or activities subject to the pause no later than February 10, 2025. They subsequently asked for the information requested by February 7, 2025.

On January 29, 2025 the original OMB memo had been rescinded. Therefore, existing funding for airport improvement projects should not be affected. But, this does mean the new administration will be scrutinizing funding through all agencies in the coming months.

The Path to the National Championship Went Through Roads and Runways

Tony Fiore — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 22:00:00 GMT

Those of us who are "The" Ohio State University Buckeye fans could not be more proud of the season our football coaches and players had this year. Through adversity and perseverance our beloved Buckeyes came out on top as National Champions.

But these teams don't play to empty stadiums. They play for fans both far and wide across the state, country and even those traveling in from other parts of the world. The only way that is possible is with our state and nation's vast network of airports. Whether traveling on a commercial airline, business aviation or personal aircraft our airports are always ready to serve the traveling public. That level of service involves thousands of hard working employees across the state at our 104 public-owned, public use airports.

One of the primary focuses of the Ohio Aviation Association is to work with our state elected officials on airport infrastructure funding and policies to enhance the traveling publics experience around the state. We also work with the staff in the ODOT-Office of Aviation and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to fund projects that protect pilots and passengers and provide world-class airports. So whether its college or professional football as well as other sports the path to championships run through both roads and runways.

Clarification on President Trump Executive Order Good News for Airport Projects

Tony Fiore — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 22:00:00 GMT

OAA Aviation Scholarship Application Open - Deadline, February 7

Tony Fiore — Fri, 24 Jan 2025 22:00:00 GMT

The Ohio Aviation Association is proud to support the future of Ohio’s aviation community through the Norman J. Crabtree Memorial Aviation Scholarship. OAA, through the Ohio Aviation Foundation, raises funds to provide scholarships to aviation degree-seeking students at one of Ohio's colleges or universities and certificate-seeking A&P students at one of Ohio's technical colleges, universities, or technical trade schools. The application fee is $25, but students applying from OAA member aviation education programs have this application fee waived.

As an added benefit, the OAA Board of Directors will invite scholarship recipients to serve a one-year term as ad-hoc, non-voting members of the Board of Directors. This term would begin at the 2025 OAA Annual Business Meeting (held at the hotel on May 6, 2025) through the 2026 OAA Business Meeting.

Click here to learn more about the Norman J. Crabtree Memorial Aviation Scholarships or for students to apply. The flyer sent to all Ohio aviation education programs is attached below.

Call for Presentation Abstracts for the Annual Conference - Deadline February 10

Tony Fiore — Mon, 13 Jan 2025 04:12:38 GMT

The Ohio Aviation Association invites you to submit a proposal for a session presentation at the upcoming annual conference. Please submit your proposal by completing the information below. Sessions will be 1 hour in length. Click here to submit a presentation abstract. The deadline for submissions is Monday, February 10, 2024. Primary contacts will be notified of proposal status on or before Monday, March 10, 2025.

OAA Aviation Scholarship Application Open

Tony Fiore — Sun, 29 Dec 2024 19:28:52 GMT

APPLY NOW!

Click here to learn more about the Norman J. Crabtree Memorial Aviation Scholarships or for students to apply.

Urging Your Support for Am. HB 77 as amended in Senate Transportation Committee

Tony Fiore — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 18:56:42 GMT

The Senate Transportation Committee amended HB 77 (Willis) to include the As Passed by the Senate version of SB 206 (Hackett).

HB 77 prohibits a person from operating an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in a manner that: (1) knowingly endangers any person or property (as opposed to in a careless or reckless manner); or (2) purposely disregards the rights or safety of others (as opposed to with willful or wanton disregard) along with penalties for certain offenses. The language amended in HB 77 from SB 206 (1) establishes specific notification procedures that apply before the director of a public-use airport may perfect a lien on an abandoned aircraft for storage costs and for labor on or furnishing materials for the abandoned aircraft, and (2) establishes a process to dispose of a derelict aircraft located on a public-use airport’s property through either public auction or through an aircraft salvage or scrap metal dealer. I’ve attached the OAA testimony with more detail on why this language is necessary. We appreciate all the work that Rep. Willis and Sen. Hackett and committees in both the House and Senate have done on both bills.

HB 77 passed out of the House 89-2

SB 206 passed out of the Senate 32-1.

Both issues above now included in Am. HB 77 are important to aviation and airports in Ohio. Therefore, the Ohio Aviation Association strongly supports passage by the full Senate and favorable House concurrence vote before the end of the 135th General Assembly.

OAA Advocacy Day + Legislative Reception Recap

Tony Fiore — Fri, 13 Dec 2024 19:18:22 GMT

On Wednesday, December 4, the Ohio Aviation Association held its annual Advocacy Day. OAA Board members and commercial service airport executives began the day meeting with Lt. Governor Jon Husted to discuss aviation and airport issues of importance, including:

increasing state airport infrastructure funding to access more federal dollars that will go to other states without more funding at the state level,
protecting the airspace around Ohio airports and the local, state and federal investments that have gone into them, and
efforts by OAA and its members to provide world-class service and facilities for Ohioans and others traveling for business or personal reasons.

OAA members in attendance then had the opportunity to meet several members of the 136th General Assembly leadership for the majority and minority caucuses in both the House and the Senate.

A clear message from Lt. Governor Husted and legislators for OAA members was to build relationships with legislators representing each airport and make sure they understand the importance about supporting OAA's public policy agenda. This can be accomplished by inviting your elected officials to visit the airport, airport sponsor or airport authority meeting to discuss these important aviation issues. The OAA is trying to help facility these discussions with the regional airport events each month corresponding with the OAA Board of Director meetings.

At the end of the day OAA members made their way to the museum gallery in the Ohio Statehouse for the legislative reception from 5-7p.m.

OAA President, Amanda McGee, kicked off the reception and welcomed those in attendance. Attendees heard from State Senator Andrew Brenner, member of the Senate Transportation Committee and Rep. Bernie Willis, Vice Chair of the House Aviation and Aerospace Committee. Both provided thoughts on the future of aviation.

Next OAA Advocacy Chair, Jeff Bonecutter, provided attendees with an overview of the Legislator(s) of the Year Award. This year the OAA selected Senator Bob Hackett for his work on SB 206 related to airports dealing with derelict or abandoned aircraft. Click here for the OAA testimony on the bill. Click here for OAA member Wilmington Air Park and Alex Beres's testimony. Mr. Bere's provided some comments about Sen. Hackett and all the work he has done to support airports and SB 206.

The program was wrapped up by OAA's Executive Director, Tony Fiore, unveiling the 2025-26 Public Policy Agenda. Primary areas of focus for the association are: 1) airport infrastructure funding, 2) airspace protection, 3) air service development, and 4) aviation workforce development.

Western Ohio Regional Airport Event Recap

Fri, 20 Sep 2024 17:49:22 GMT

On Thursday, September 19, the Ohio Aviation Association (OAA), the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and the Ohio Regional Business Aviation Association (ORBAA) jointly sponsored another regional airport event at the Dayton International Airport (DAY). Thank you to Dayton International Airport for hosting this event as well as the Dayton Development Coalition (DDC) and Passero for sponsoring the event.

We also want to thank the state and local elected officials who joined us for the legislative briefing.

The airports in this region outlined several priority projects in their 5 to 10 year plans. All projects relate to maintaining or expanding the airport under two central themes for each area - economic and workforce development. These projects include: T-hanger expansion, terminal modernization or building replacement, AMT classroom hanger, expanding runway to 5,000 feet for corporate aircraft, additional apron space for itinerant aircraft, full-length parallel taxiway for increased safety, baggage claim enhancements, capacity building at security checkpoints, curbside enhancements, drainage study and management, control tower maintenance and updates, pavement maintenance, obstruction removal, as well as electric capacity expansion and EV charging.

Similar events are planned around the state in each of the JobsOhio network partner regions.

October 10 - James A. Rhodes/Jackson County Airport - Southern part of Ohio Southeast
October 24 - The Aviator - Cleveland-Hopkins International Airport (CLE) - Team NEO

We are working on confirming dates for the following regions:

Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport (YNG) - Lake to River
Zanesville Municipal Airport (ZZV) - Northern part of Ohio Southeast
Location TBD - One Columbus

FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) Grants Update - Sept. 6, 2024

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 19:54:07 GMT

On September 6, 2024, the FAA released its most recent Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grant round projects. There were 19 grants awarded totaling over $32.4 million.

The airport grant program funds airport infrastructure projects such as runways, taxiways, airport signage, airport lighting, and airport markings. The grants strengthen our nation's aviation infrastructure. Airports are entitled to a certain amount of AIP funding each year, based on passenger volume. If their capital project needs exceed their available entitlement funds, then the FAA can supplement their entitlements with discretionary funding.

City	Airport	Loc ID	Project Description	Entitlement Amount	Discretionary Amount	Total AIP
Akron	Akron-Canton Regional	CAK	Reconstruct Runway Lighting	$1,149,035	-	$1,149,035
Barnesville	Barnesville-Bradfield	6G5	Reconstruct Access Road, Rehabilitate Apron, Shift Taxiway	$304,681	-	$304,681
Chesapeake	Lawrence County Airpark	HTW	Reconstruct Apron	$224,818	$1,300,999	$1,525,817
Chillicothe	Ross County	RZT	Rehabilitate Runway	$577,498	$1,975,492	$2,552,990
Circleville	Pickaway County Memorial	CYO	Construct/Expand Hangar	$516,522	-	$512,522
Columbus	Rickenbacker International	LCK	Reconstruct Apron	$3,727,978	$2,168,969	$5,896,947
Columbus	State of Ohio	*OHS	Develop New Pavement Plan/Conduct Pavement Study	$1,500,00	-	$1,500,000
Crestline	Galion Municipal	GQQ	Rehabilitate Parking Lot, Rehabilitate Terminal Access Road	$53,439	-	$53,439
Findlay	Findlay	FDY	Rehabilitate Runaway, Rehabilitate Runway Lighting, Shift Taxiway	$150,000	$4,643,050	$4,793,050
Gallipolis	Gallia-Meigs Regional	GAS	Reconstruct Airport Rotating Beacon	$126,540	-	$126,540
Lima	Lima Allen County	AOH	Rehabilitate Taxiway	$229,488	$940,940	$1,170,428
Middle Bass	Middle Bass Island	3T7	Install Wildlife Perimeter Fencing	$550,896	-	$550,896
Middlefield	Geauga County	7G8	Construct Taxiway	$211,516	$2,963,059	$3,174,575
Napoleon	Henry County	7W5	Construct/Expand Fuel Farm, Expand Apron	$50,850	-	$50850
Port Clinton	Erie-Ottawa International	PCW	Expand Apron	$450,000	$5,985,940	$6,435,940
Steubenville	Geary A Bates/Jefferson County Airpark	2G2	Install Wildlife Perimeter Fencing	$357,750	$975,980	$1,333,730
Toledo	Eugene F. Kranz/Toledo Express	TOL	Zero Emissions Infrastructure	-	$169,465	$169,465
Van Wert	Van Wert County	VNW	Construct Airport Lighting Vault, Reconstruct Runway Lighting, Reconstruct Runway visual Guidance System	$1,001,714	-	$1,001,714
Youngstown	Youngstown/Warren Regional	YNG	Reseal Apron Pavement	$175,820	-	$175,820
			Total	$1,177,534	$7,131,385.00	$32,478,439

To see a full list of airport projects awarded on September 6, 2024, click here.

FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) Grants Update

Sat, 31 Aug 2024 16:00:39 GMT

FAA Airport Improvement Program (AIP) Grants Update

Since June 28, 2024, there have been three Airport Improvement Program (AIP) grant round releases from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). There were 26 grants awarded over the last two months totaling over $20.1 million.

City	Airport	Loc ID	Project Description	Entitlement Amount	Discretionary Amount	Total AIP
Celina	Lakefield	CQA	Reconstruct Airport Drainage/Erosion Control	$226,260	$0	$226,260
Lancaster	Fairfield County	LHQ	Reseal/Resurface Runway Pavement	$150,000	$0	$150,000
Marysville	Union County	MRT	Construct/Expand Hanager	$85,500	$0	$85,500
Portsmouth	Greater Portsmouth Regional	PMH	Reconstruct Runway Visual Guidance System	$201,974	$0	$201,974
Willoughby	Lake County Executive	LNN	Rehabilitate Runway, Rehabilitate Taxiway	$2,897,485	$0	$2,897,485
Akron	Akron-Canton Regional	CAK	Reconstruct Runway Lighting	$2,703,150	$0	$2,703,150
Bowling Green	Wood County	1G0	Extend/Expand Runway	$470,821	$4,309,953	$4,780,774
Bucyrus	Port Bucyrus/Crawford County	17G	Reconstruct Runway Lighting	$274,180	$0	$274,180
Cleveland	Cleveland-Hopkins International	CLE	Reconstruct Wildlife Perimeter Fencing	$2,625,000	$0	$2,625,000
Middletown	Middletown Regional/Hook Field	MWO	Shift Taxiway	$354,374	$0	$354,374
Mount Gilead	Morrow County	4I9	Reconstruct Airfield Equipment	$113,805	$0	$113,805
Newark	Newark-Heath	VTA	Construct/Expand Terminal Parking Lot	$80,320	$0	$80,320
Norwalk	Norwalk-Huron County	5A1	Reconstruct Airfield Equipment, Reconstruct Airport Lighting Vault Equipment, Reconstruct Airport Rotating Beacon, Reconstruct Runway Lighting, Reconstruct Taxiway Lighting	$114,853	$0	$144,853
Versailles	Darke County	VES	Reconstruct Terminal	$83,142	$0	$83,142
Cincinnati	Cincinnati Municipal/Lunken Field	LUK	Airfield Safety Mitigation Measures, Install Taxiway Signage/Markings	$1,372,755	$0	$1,372,755
Cleveland	Cuyahoga County	CGF	Reconstruct Taxiway, Shift Taxiway	$726,579	$0	$726,570
Columbus	Bolton Field	TZR	Construct Taxilane	$233,567	$0	$233,567
Coshocton	Richard Downing	I40	Reconstruct Runway Lighting, Reconstruct Visual Guidance System, Rehabilitate Runway Markings	$384,475	$0	$384,475
Fostoria	Fostoria Metro	FZI	Reconstruct Terminal	$600,000	$0	$600,000
Hillsboro	Highland County	HOC	Reconstruct Airport Drainage/Erosion Control	$42,570	$0	$42,570
Millersburg	Holmes County	10G	Reseal/Resurface Runway Pavement	$441,870	$0	$441,870
New Lexington	Perry County	I86	Realign Taxiway, Rehabilitate Apron	$471,530	$0	$471,530
Oxford	Miami University	OXD	Obstruction marking/Lighting/Removal	$180,000	$0	$180,000
Wadsworth	Wadsworth Municipal	3G3	Acquire Snow Removal Equipment, Reconstruct Runway Visual Guidance System	$590,029	$0	$590,029
Waverly	Pike County	EOP	Construct Taxilane	$27,000	$0	$27,000
Wilmington	Clinton Field	I66	Reconstruct Runway Visual Guidance System	$390,463	$0	$390,463
				$15,841,702	$4,309,953	$20,151,655

ODOT Office of Aviation Releases FY 2025 AIP Grant Awards

Sat, 31 Aug 2024 16:00:07 GMT

On August 27, 2024, the Ohio Department of Transportation Office of Aviation released the FY2025 the project list for direct grants to general aviation airports. The funding comes from the Ohio Airport Improvement Program.

ODOT selected 21 general aviation airport projects. These projects account for $7,015,031 in airport infrastructure grants over the next year.

OAA will be developing its 2025-2026 Public Policy Agenda through the end of the year. The new agenda will take into consideration all of the airport infrastructure project requests over the next biennium.

Southwest Ohio Regional Airport Event Recap

Sat, 31 Aug 2024 15:58:56 GMT

On Wednesday, August 28, the Ohio Aviation Association (OAA), the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) and the Ohio Regional Business Aviation Association (ORBAA) jointly sponsored another regional airport event at the Clermont County Airport (I69). Thank you to Sporty's, Eastern Cincinnati Aviation and Clermont County for hosting this event.

We also want to thank the state and local elected officials who joined us for the legislative briefing.

Similar events are planned around the state in each of the JobsOhio network partner regions.

September 19 - Dayton International Airport (DAY) - DDC
October 10 - James A. Rhodes/Jackson County Airport - Southern part of Ohio Southeast
October 24 - The Aviator - Cleveland-Hopkins International Airport (CLE) - Team NEO

We are working on confirming dates for the following regions:

Youngstown-Warren Regional Airport (YNG) - Lake to River
Zanesville Municipal Airport (ZZV) - Northern part of Ohio Southeast
Location TBD - One Columbus

Ohio Mobile ID in Apple Wallet

Fri, 02 Aug 2024 19:46:11 GMT

On Wednesday, July 31, 2024, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted announced today that Ohioans can now add their Ohio-issued driver’s license or state identification card to Apple Wallet for use in person at select businesses, in select apps, and at Transportation Security Administration (TSA) security checkpoints, including at John Glenn Columbus International Airport and the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky International Airport.

Ohio is the 5th state in the nation to offer this option.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU:

Ohio Mobile ID can be presented in person at businesses and organizations with standard compliant mobile ID readers.
Businesses are permitted to accept the Ohio Mobile ID for purchases that require age verification if they choose to do so. This is a new option, not a mandate. It's easy, secure, and private.
To assist businesses, Ohio now offers a free age verification app to show a customer is over 21 years old for businesses, enabling them to securely and privately accept customers’ mobile driver’s licenses in person using an iPhone with no additional hardware needed.
Ohio has provided this option at no cost to businesses to validate a customer is 21 years of age or older using their Ohio Mobile ID.
The Ohio Mobile ID Check is available in the Apple App Store and works on iPhoneXS and newer that run on iOS17 or newer.
There are other hardware and software reader solutions that Ohio businesses can take advantage of with different functionality to accept ISO 18013-5 compliant driver's licenses and IDs.
There is no cost associated with adding or using your Ohio Mobile ID in Apple Wallet on iPhone or Apple Watch.
Information about usage, including where, when, and what personal information you share, is encrypted and stored only on your device.
Neither Ohio nor Apple can see when or where you present your Ohio Mobile ID on iPhone and Apple Watch.

GET STARTED:

Frequently asked questions and other information can be found: HERE
You can add your Ohio Mobile ID to apple wallet: HERE
Your business associations can begin accepting Ohio Mobile IDs using the state’s free verification app found: HERE

Registration Open for 2024 OAA Golf Outing!

Tony Fiore — Mon, 22 Jul 2024 18:32:06 GMT

It’s that time of year again when we dust off the golf clubs and hit the driving range in preparation for the 2024 Ohio Aviation Foundation Golf Classic. Show your support of future leaders in the aviation industry by joining us on September 27, 2024. Your donation or sponsorship will go directly toward the Norman J. Crabtree Scholarship. Last year OAA awarded 4 scholarships totaling $7,000. This year, with your support, we will be able to provide even more scholarship dollars to future aviation leaders!

2024 Ohio Aviation Golf Outing participants will be immersed in the only true-links golf experience in the Midwest at the Golf Club of Dublin. All attendees will have the opportunity to network with fellow aviation industry professionals, enjoy a fun day of golf, and have a shot to win some big prizes all while supporting a great cause – aviation scholarships. Click here for a video flyover of the golf course.

Event Details
Register Online
Download Event PDF with sponsorship and registration details

If you are paying by check, please download and complete the form by Friday, September 20, 2024.

Save the date and planning for 2025 OAA Annual Conference

Tony Fiore — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 19:31:22 GMT

The 2025 OAA Annual Conference will be held May 6-8, 2025. This is a week later than earlier reported to avoid any other conference conflicts next year. We will be returning to the Renaissance Downtown Columbus for another fun filled week of aviation education, presentation and networking.

Please take a few minutes to fill out the conference survey. https://s.surveyplanet.com/tyiyz230

Your feedback about the 2024 conference or any items we can focus on for 2025 is greatly appreciated!

OAA Launches New Website

Tony Fiore — Wed, 17 Jul 2024 19:30:22 GMT

If you are thinking this OAA newsletter looks similar, but something is different…you are correct.

Over the last nine months OAA has been working on transitioning to a new membership platform and website, and in turn a different newsletter format. Well, the wait is over. When members or guests visit www.ohioaviation.org

they will have a much better experience. A significant amount of work has gone into the membership database to update outdated records, but there is still much work to be done. In addition, we are only as good as the information our members keep updated in their profile. Whether its changes to personnel, updates to contact information or an event happening at your airport please let us know. We want to make sure you have a great experience interacting with the Ohio Aviation Association now and into the future!

Note: As mentioned in previous newsletters all OAA contacts will continue to receive our newsletters in the future. But any member only content will require logging into your account to access more details about the topics we cover

OAA Scheduling Airport Events in JobsOhio Network Partner Regions Through 2024-25

Tony Fiore — Tue, 09 Jul 2024 16:18:47 GMT

July 25, 2024 - Board Meeting (Virtual)
August 22, 2024 - Board Meeting - Erie-Ottawa International Airport (KPCW)
August 28, 2024 - SW Ohio Regional Event @Clermont County Airport
September 19, 2024 - Board Meeting - Virtual
September 27, 2024 - Norm J. Crabtree Scholarship Golf Outing - Golf Club of Dublin (Dublin)
October 24, 2024 - NE Ohio Regional Event @The Aviator near Cleveland Hopkins Int'l Airport + Board Meeting
November 21, 2024 - Board Meeting - Virtual
December 4, 2024 - Legislative Reception in Columbus at the Ohio Statehouse
December 19, 2024 - Board Meeting - Virtual
May 6-8, 2025 - 2025 OAA Annual Conference

OAA is trying to schedule at least one regional event in each of the JobsOhio Network Partner areas before the end of 2024. Please contact OAA Executive Director, Tony Fiore, at tony@ohioaviation.org if you are interested in hosting a future event (members only).

Please send me the events happening at your airports!

Ohio Airport Events

August 17, 2024 - Mid-Eastern Regional Fly-In (MERFI Wings & Wheels) - Grimes Field - Click here for more info.

OAA Annaul Conference Recap: OAA Annual Business Meeting Discusses the State of Aviation in Ohio

Tony Fiore — Wed, 22 May 2024 21:17:51 GMT

On April 30 - May 2, 2024, the Ohio Aviation Association (OAA) held its Annual Conference at the Renaissance Downtown Hotel in Columbus, Ohio. The event brought together aviation professionals, legislators, and other stakeholders to discuss the current state of aviation in Ohio and explore future opportunities for the industry.

The event began with the monthly OAA Board meeting. Here the OAA Board of Directors welcomed new board members a welcome message from outgoing OAA President Lisa Dalpiaz and an introduction of incoming OAA President Amanda McGee. In his second year as the OAA Executive Director, Tony Fiore, also addressed attendees.

The opening general session was led by Shannetta R. Griffin, P.E., Associate Administrator of Airports for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).

Later that evening, the OAA hosted a legislative reception welcoming lively conversation amongst conference attendees and members of the 135^th Ohio General Assembly.

The next morning, attendees were engaged in a Legislator Aviation Panel. The panel featured Ohio legislators including The Honorable Adam Holmes, Chair of the House Aviation & Aerospace Committee, The Honorable Bill DeMora, Member of the Senate Transportation Committee, and The Honorable Bill Reineke, Vice Chair of the Senate Transportation Committee.

Next up attendees heard important updates from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Great Lakes Region and DET-ADO. Speakers during this session included Dominika Drozdzal, Senior Advisor, Great Lakes Region; Richard Kula, Manager, Planning and Programming Branch, Airports Division, Great Lakes Region; and John L. Mayfield Jr., Manager, Detroit Airports District Office.

Attendees then made their way to breakout sessions. This year’s conference introduced two separate tracks for attendees to choose from – general aviation or commercial service. They heard about important topics surrounding risk stacking; stormwater master plans; hanger; upgrading an ATCT; airport zoning; design to construction; runway rehabilitation; and minimum viable infrastructure for enabling advanced air mobility.

Another new panel discussion this year was regarding creative airport funding. During this panel Terry Slaybaugh with JobsOhio gave an aviation growth overview. Sarah Spees with the Dayton Development Coalition discussed the Sierra Nevada MRO at Dayton International Airport. Ryan Blackburn with JobsOhio discussed military and federal sector projects. And Susan Restrepo with the Ohio Department of Development discussed other airport property opportunities.

Attendees ended the evening enjoying a jazz band trio and trying their luck on a few various casino games.

The final day of the conference started off with an education panel discussion titled "From Classroom to Aviation Career – Connecting Aviation Education Programs to Today’s Workforce. The panelists included Dr. I. Richmond Nettey, Professor, Aviation Management, Kent State University and two students discussing their capstone project; Dr. D. Blake Stringer, Director, Center for Aviation Studies, The Ohio State University College of Engineering; Dr. David J Miller, A&P Mechanic, Associate Professor, Aviation Technology, Sinclair Community College; and Catherine E. Smith, Teaching Professor, FAA Chief Instructor, Bowling Green State University Flight Center.

Next up ODOT’s Office of Aviation, Director, Jim Bryant, and Matthew Preisler, Aviation Planner/Project Manager, Consultant, ODOT Office of Aviation, provided an update on the Ohio Airport System Plan to Ohio airport stakeholders.

Attendees then went to a series of breakout sessions, including streamlining procurement services for airport grant projects; coordinating logistics; airport pavement maintenance; generating revenue through the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and renewable energy.

During lunch attendees heard from our keynote speaker, Ohio’s 66^th Lieutenant Governor, Jon Husted. The Lt. Governor spoke about economic and workforce development as well as the investments in infrastructure around the state.

The annual scholarship presentation and awards ceremony marked a milestone for the association. Due to the efforts of volunteers and generosity of donors the newly created Ohio Aviation Foundation was able to double the number of recipients and amounts granted out to aviation students. Connor Pessler from Miami University and Brendan Kleman from Kent State University were awarded $2,500 each for their respective aviation studies. In addition, Monica Chakerian and Hafid Yabarow both from Columbus State Community College were awarded $1,000 each.

The program then moved on to recognize three aviation professionals that stood out among the rest over the past year. Candace McGraw, President & CEO of CVG Airport was recognized with the Aviator of the Year Award recognizing her decades of contributions to the aviation industry. Josh Tattrie, Airport Manager of Lima-Allen County Regional Airport, was recognized as the Airport Manager of the Year. Finally, Aviation Student of the Year award went to Erin Walling. She recently completed two separate Associates of Applied Science degrees in Aviation Maintenance Technology and is currently studying for the FAA testing so she can complete her A&P certifications.

The conference ended after roundtable discussions for both general aviation and commercial service airports.

The dates are set for the 2025 OAA Annual Conference. They are April 29-May 1, 2025. The event will once again be held at the Renaissance Downtown Columbus. Save the dates! We look forward to seeing you at the conference next year!

Governor DeWine Launches Statewide Firefighting Foam Takeback Program - Steps for Ohio Airports to Apply

Tony Fiore — Mon, 18 Mar 2024 16:21:54 GMT

On Monday, March 18, 2024, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine launched a first-of-its-kind initiative to destroy hazardous per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in firefighting foam.

During an event at Wright State University's Calamityville training facility in Fairborn today, Governor DeWine announced details of the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency's new Aqueous Film-Forming Foam (AFFF) Takeback Program. AFFF is primarily used by fire departments to smother flammable liquid fires, but its high concentrations of PFAS compounds - often called "forever" chemicals - resist typical environmental degradation processes and cause long-term contamination of water, soil, and air.

Using PFAS Annihilator® technology developed by Battelle, which is headquartered in Columbus, the AFFF Takeback Program will destroy PFAS in firefighting foam to non-detectable levels through the process of supercritical water oxidation.

"The development of this technology is just another example of how Ohio continues to lead the nation in innovation," said Governor DeWine. "Through this new program, we're destroying PFAS, which was once believed to be indestructible, to protect our first responders and safeguard the environment."

Ohio airports needing assistance with PFAS can follow these steps:

Go to https://oh.revive-environmental.com/register/

Make an account- Account will include contact information as well as their Identifier (your identification code is your FAA identifier code).

After making an account you should be able to go right into registering your material.

You will be asked preferred days of week/times for drop-off.

You will then add the material. For that you will need the following: manufacturer, material name, purchase date, manufacturer date, container type, # of containers, gallons, any images of material and MSDS sheets. You can list unknown to any of these and it just flags it for EPA on the back end because they will then need to do some more testing to determine what the material actually is. The more specifics on the material the better.

There is a hotline open for anyone with questions: (614) 424-3221 or OHAFFFSupport@battelle.org