On the August/September 2010 Volume 1, Issue 4 Approach Administrator’s Message Greetings from the Mass- general aviation airports across administration building project DOT Aeronautics Division! the Commonwealth. This was from design and into construc- Summer is beginning to an important safety and infra- tion. His strong support of wind down and we are heading structure project to address the the project and the airport was into the Airport Capital Im- deteriorating pavement at air- an integral factor in the open- provement Program (CIP) ports that are not eligible for ing of the new administration meeting season. As you may federal funds through the Fed- building at Westfield-Barnes know by now, the Aeronautics eral Aviation Administration’s Airport in 2008. Chairman Division is scheduling the first airport improvement program. Allen’s advocacy and enthusi- round of airport CIP project The successful project was the asm towards aviation will be Christopher Willenborg, Massa- meetings for the Airport Im- result of outstanding work cherished and missed. chusetts Department of Transpor- provement Program (AIP) from Joanne Ruddy of the Several weeks ago, I had the tation (MassDOT) Aeronautics eligible airports in September Aeronautics Division, repre- opportunity to join Dean Sau- Division Administrator. and October. We anticipate sentatives from Hoyle Tanner cier of the National Business scheduling similar meetings and Associates, and the con- Aviation Association (NBAA) with the privately-owned pub- struction contractor, Hi-Lite and David Dinneen of the lic use airports in November. Markings. See article and pro- Massachusetts Airport Man- Inside this issue: As an airport manager, this is ject photos starting on page 5. agement Association (MAMA) an important time to coordi- In August, we were all in presenting State Representa- nate with your airport commis- shocked to hear about the tive Donald Humason with the Just Plane Folks 2/3 sioners and airport consultants death of Arthur Allen. As NBAA Silk Scarf Award at the regarding your respective air- most of you know, Arthur 2010 Westfield International Welcome Tom Mahoney 3 port CIP. Given these fiscally Allen was the former Chairman Air Show Commander’s Re- challenging times at the federal, of the Massachusetts Aeronau- ception. The Silk Scarf Award Statewide Airport System 4 state and local level, it is essen- tics Commission. Chairman was established by the NBAA Plan tial that each airport develop Allen was passionate about to recognize individuals who FAA Waypoint 5 realistic and accurate programs. aviation and our airports. He have contributed their time, We look forward to meeting shared his enthusiasm and love talent, ability, commitment and Statewide Crack Repair 5-8 with each of you and assisting towards aviation across the dedication to the enhancement & Pavement Marking your airports in enhancing Commonwealth. Each day of general aviation NBAA’s Silk Scarf 9 airport safety, economic devel- Chairman Allen would fly to but specifically, business and opment, and environmental the airports and meet with corporate aviation. Due to his Upcoming Events 9/10 stewardship. airport managers and tenants. leadership and support of all In July, the Aeronautics Di- In fact, in 2006 while managing airports within the Common- Photo Wrap 11 vision completed the Statewide Westfield-Barnes Airport, I wealth, we gladly recognize Crack Repair and Pavement experienced one of those visits. State Representative Humason. Markings Project at several Chairman Allen wanted to help See page 9 for more informa- privately-owned public use the airport with moving the tion. ■ The Aeronautics Division’s mission is to promote aviation throughout the Commonwealth while establishing an efficient integrated airport system that will enhance airport safety, economic development, and environmental stewardship. On the Approach Volume 1, Issue 4 Page 2 Just Plane Folks - Featuring Our Friend Arthur G. Allen (Nov. 7, 1946 - Aug. 2, 2010) By: Katie R. Servis (MassDOT Aeronautics Division) Our friend and long-time supporter of airports and the aviation what former and our cur- industry within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Arthur G. rent staff here at the Massa- Allen, passed away unexpectedly on Monday August 2, 2010 at the chusetts Department of age of 63. Transportation - Aeronau- Arthur became a part of the Aeronautics Division family when he tics Division had to say began serving as a Commissioner for the then Massachusetts Aero- about Arthur when asked nautics Commission (MAC). Arthur served MAC proudly for nine what they would remember years with five of those years dedicated to the Commission as our most... Chairman (2003 to 2007). However, Arthur became part of the • Chris Willenborg, aviation family much earlier in life. Administrator: “One In 1967, Arthur went for his first flight with Rex Trailer and in of my fondest memo- time got his own license to fly. For over 30 years Arthur flew air- ries of Arthur took craft with his private pilot’s license and eventually with his commer- place at a monthly cial pilot’s certificate. Arthur was always willing to share his enthu- MAC meeting. I siasm for aviation by handing over the controls to his non-pilot brought my son Luke, passengers to give them an opportunity to experience the thrill of who was four years old Arthur G. Allen, Commissioner for the flying. at the time, to the Massachusetts Aeronautics Commission Arthur owned his own plane and was ever present at our airports Commission meet- (MAC) for nine years and MAC Chair- within the Commonwealth. Arthur was always a hands on type of ing. We were going to man from 2003 to 2007. guy and made it a point as Commissioner and Chairman to fly often visit the sci- to our public use airports. It was his mission to understand our ence museum following airports both inside and out! the meeting. Prior to the meeting, Arthur spoke to Luke Arthur will be sadly missed by his family, extended family and about airplanes, airports, and Luke's little sister Amelia. As many friends both in and out of the aviation community. This is Arthur called the MAC meeting to order, he asked Luke to stand up and introduced him to the Commissioners and the audience. Although Luke was a little embarrassed, Ar- thur made him feel special at the meeting. Arthur enjoyed sharing aviation with children of all ages.” • Denise Garcia, Manager of Aviation Planning: “For those of us who knew Arthur as a co-worker or close friend, he was a generous man whose heart was always in the right place. He led life to the fullest and never let anything stand in his way or hold him back. Whether he was visiting airports across the state in his Archer, encouraging young people to learn to fly, marching in a parade with the Ancient and Honorables or serving as an EMT in the local Fire Department, he lived his life with a sense of purpose that was steadfast and honorable. He will be long remembered by those of us who experienced his kind- ness, compassion and continuing words of encouragement. It was a genuine privilege to know him and he will be sadly Arthur Allen had enthusiasm for everything aviation. Arthur is picture here at missed.” the 2009 Real World Design Challenge (RWDC) Award Ceremony held at • Thomas Mahoney, Manager of Airport Engineering: Plum Island Airport (2B2) where he presented awards to seven students from “Having sat in the audience at Commission Meetings for a Newburyport High School for a job well done in meeting the 2009 design chal- number of years, I always admired how Chairman Allen con- lenge, which focused on aeronautics and energy use.* ducted his meetings. It didn’t matter whether you were a com- mission member or a member of the audience he was always * The U.S. Department of Energy’s RWDC is an annual competition that provides high school students, grades 9 – 12, with the opportunity to work on real world challenges that face one of the the same – courteous, attentive, and well informed. His love Nation’s leading industries. The challenge is aimed at enhancing science, technology, engineering and for flying made him a great ambassador for aviation. I don’t mathematics education in high schools. Page 3 On the Approach Volume 1, Issue 4 know how many times I heard him say, “Build a mile of roadway and you can drive a mile, build a mile of runway, and you can fly anywhere in the world.” Chairman Allen will be missed.” • Steve Rawding, Aviation Planner: “I was shocked and deeply saddened upon hearing of the loss of Arthur. He was truly a man with a passion for airports and general aviation. His enthusiasm and expertise were unparalleled. Arthur was a straight shooter with a love of God, family, country and aviation and he never failed to provide us with an update on the status of aviation in the Common- wealth at every Commission meeting. God Bless Arthur.” • Katie Servis, Airport Environmental Analyst: “I will remember Arthur most for his kindness, his desire just to chat to get to know you better, and his overall enthusiasm for everything aviation. I will forever miss our discussions on flying, our airports, and those beautiful animals we both love so much - horses!” • Dick Bunker, Aeronautical Inspector: “Arthur was a gem, especially when it came to caring for the airports within the Common- wealth. He was dedicated to advancing aviation in Massachusetts in any way he could. Arthur and I spent a lot of time together flying to the airports. He will be missed by me as a great friend.” • Lorraine Bohannon, Program Coordinator: “Arthur was a very exuberant person and a compassionate and gentle soul. He lent an enthusiastic hand to everyone he met and would do whatever it took to help someone in need. He lived life to the fullest. There will be an empty spot in my heart as I journey though life. He is gone from our sight, but never from our memories. He is gone from our touch, but never from our hearts. Have mercy on his soul and grant him Paradise.” • Robert “Bob” Mallard, Former Director of the Massachusetts Aeronautics Commission: “I worked with Arthur for five years while at the MAC and I have many memories of him during that time. From our very first meeting at an Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA) event in New Bedford to my last phone conversation with him regarding a new Boston Heliport, Arthur worked tirelessly for the betterment of aviation causes. But the fondest memory I have of Arthur has nothing to do with aviation. A few years ago, one sunny and warm summer day, I brought my family up to Newburyport for dinner. I called Arthur to let him know we were in the area. He was at home but insisted I meet him down at the dock to see his boat. Arthur, his wife Linda, and two of their friends greeted us as if we were family. While the adults chatted on deck, Arthur gave my kids a personal tour of the marina in his zodiac inflatable. His passion for living gave two small children huge smiles and fond memories that will last a lifetime.” Goodbye to our dear friend Arthur, you will always remain in our minds and in our hearts. ■ Welcome Tom Mahoney to the MassDOT Aeronautics Division Family MassDOT Aeronautics Division welcomes the newest addition to our Aeronautics family By: Katie R. Servis (MassDOT Aeronautics Division) The Massachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) Aeronautics Division is pleased to present to you the newest addition to our MassDOT Aeronautics Division family, Mr. Thomas Mahoney! Tom joined our team in the third week of August 2010 as our Man- ager of Airport Engineering. Tom graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of Massachusetts and is a registered Profes- sional Engineer (PE) in both Massachusetts and Maine. He comes to the Aeronautics Division with over 32 years experience in civil en- gineering. Twelve of those 32 years were dedicated to airports while em- ployed at HNTB as a Senior Airport Engineer in the Aviation Group. Tom is no stranger to airports in the New England Region nor is he a stranger to the staff at MassDOT Aeronautics Division and the Federal Aviation Administration due to his knowledge of and experience at sev- eral of our New England Airports including: T.F. Green Airport (Warwick RI), Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (Manchester NH), and Newport State Airport (Newport RI) and here in Massachusetts at Boston Logan International Airport (Boston MA), Mansfield Municipal Airport (Mansfield MA), and Westover Metropolitan Airport (Chicopee MA). We welcome Tom and his airport design knowledge and think that he is a fantastic addition to the team. We hope that you agree! Please feel free to stop by to meet Tom or if you already know Tom, Thomas F. Mahoney, PE, picture here, is the newest addition to the stop by and visit him in his new office. If you wish to reach Tom, please Aeronautics Division family. Tom will serve as our Manager of Air- do so at 617.412.3678 or [email protected]. port Engineering. Welcome Tom! ■ On the Approach Volume 1, Issue 4 Page 4 Statewide Airport System Plan A project overview and update By: Denise Garcia (MassDOT Aeronautics Division) The purpose of this study is to prepare an update to the tions will address the channeling of growth to minimize social, Massachusetts State Airport System Plan (MSASP) that can be environmental and economic impacts in order to meet the used as a tool to guide the development of the 37 public use Commonwealth’s goals for intermodal, aviation and economic airports in the Commonwealth over the 20-year forecast pe- development. riod. At present, the Mass- To meet the demanding chal- DOT Aeronautics Division (in Vision, Goals Airport lenges in aviation today, this association with the project & Measures Roles study must anticipate future consultant team) has largely growth and be innovative in completed their inventory, role recommending the appropriate Airport naming analysis, pilot/business Current Runway role for each airport in the state Inventory & surveys, forecasting, and most System Pavement airport system. An inventory of Issues analytical tasks for this study, Adequacy Assessment Identification the existing public use airports and is quickly moving towards was conducted to determine a final recommendation plan their classification, infrastructure Future for the Commonwealth’s state Recommended Aviation System/ and activity levels. Plan/Policy airport system. See flow chart. Forecasts Airport Having accurate, complete Review The project consult- Performance and current information on the ant team is on schedule to state airport system is essential complete this study and analy- Aviation- to the ultimate success of this sis in time to make a presenta- Related study. The efforts undertaken in Employment tion of the final results at the this project will result in an up- Assessment November, 2010 Massachu- dated MSASP (aligned with the setts Airport Managers Asso- goals and objectives of the MassDOT Transportation Strategic ciation (MAMA) conference. Final copies of the document Plan) that supports the demand for aviation services and air- should be available by the end of December, 2010. ■ port development in the Commonwealth. Airports in Massachusetts play an important role in meeting the transportation needs of the traveling public and directly contribute to the economic development of the state and each region. Planning for airports in Massachusetts should insure the system has the capability to meet present and future aviation needs, address safety and other key issues, and establish per- formance based goals related to public use air- ports throughout the state. The analysis of available and eligible funds, when combined with practical alternative sources, will form the basis for an implement- able plan. Priorities among classifications will be developed incorporating the economic benefit relationships and opportunities for the various airports in the system. Proposed recommendations will be made in response to potentially conflicting demand for a diverse mix of facilities and services at each of The Massachusetts Statewide Airport System. our public use airports. These recommenda- Page 5 On the Approach Volume 1, Issue 4 FAA Waypoint Your airport’s Federal obligation - what your municipal officials should know of the Federal obligations resulting from accepting FAA grant funds - By: Donna Witte (Federal Aviation Administration - Airports Program Specialist/Compliance) During these challenging economic times, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) realizes some municipalities may look to their airports as a means to offset non-aviation budget deficits. We are concerned about the impacts of budget cuts on airports as well as the municipalities’ legal obligations to comply with its Federal grant as- surances. These cutbacks may result in the following: • Using airport revenue and property for non-aviation uses; The FAA looks to you as the airport sponsor to educate your municipal officials of the Federal • Reducing funds for airport maintenance and operations includ- obligations resulting from accepting FAA grant ing essential personnel; and funds. • Losing matching Airport Improvement Plan (AIP) funds neces- sary for safety improvements. As a condition of receiving FAA funding, the sponsor agrees to abide by Federal grant assurances, which are codified at 49 United States Code (U.S.C.) §47107. In agreeing to these grant assurances, the City is obligated as follows: • Sponsor Assurance No. 5(a) Preserving Rights and Powers states in part: • “It will not take or permit any action which would operate to deprive it of any or all of the terms, conditions and assurances in the grant agreement without the written approval of the Secretary…..” • Sponsor Assurance No. 19(a) Operation and Maintenance states in part: • “The airport and all facilities which are necessary to serve the aeronautical users of the airport, other than facilities owned or controlled by the United States, shall be operated at all times in a safe and serviceable condition ….” • Sponsor Assurance No. 25 Airport Revenues state in part: • “a. All revenues generated by the airport ………………will be expended by it for the capital or operating costs of the air- port; the local airport system; or other local facilities which are owned or operated by the owner or operator of the airport and which are directly and substantially related to the actual air transportation of passengers or property;……….” and, • “b. Any civil penalties or other sanctions will be imposed for violation of this Assurance in accor- dance with the provisions of Section 47107 of Title 49, United States Code.” The FAA looks to you as the airport sponsor to educate your municipal officials of the Federal obligations result- ing from accepting FAA grant funds. If you would like additional information, please contact Donna Witte at 781.238.7624 or [email protected]. ■ Statewide Crack Repair & Pavement Marking Project By: Katie R. Servis (MassDOT Aeronautics Division) With the help of Hoyle, Tanner, and Associates (HTA) of Manchester NH and Hi-Lite Markings, Inc of Adams Center, NY, the Mas- sachusetts Department of Transportation (MassDOT) Aeronautics Division began a much needed statewide crack repair and pavement marking project on June 21, 2010 for eleven of the Commonwealth’s privately-owned/public-use airports. The purpose of the project was to assist our privately-owned/public-use airports in maintaining the safety and serviceability of their paved runways. The project included the following airports: Falmouth (5B6), Great Barrington (GBR), Hanson-Cranland (28M), Hopedale-Draper Industrial Park (1B6), Northampton (7B2), Plum-Island/Newburyport (2B2), Spencer Airport (60M), Sterling Airport (3B3), Stow-Minuteman Air Field (6B6), Tanner-Hiller Airport (8B5) and new pavement markings only at Marlboro Airport (9B1). The project was funded through the state’s Airport Safety and Maintenance Program (ASMP) and cost approximately $1 million to complete. The photos on the following pages depict various phases of the project at each airport. A special thanks goes out to Tim Audet, Resident for HTA, and Hi-Lite Markings, Inc of Adams Center, NY for a job well done! ■ On the Approach Volume 1, Issue 4 Page 6 Right: pre-project runway pavement condition and saw cut and filling underway at Great Barrington (GBR). Left: pre-project runway pave- ment/marking condition and crack sealing in progress at Tanner-Hiller Airport (8B5). Below: New pavement mark- ings at 8B5 at the approach end of Runway 24. Below: pavement repair at Plum-Island/Newburyport (2B2) and new pavement markings shown at the approach end of Runway 28. Page 7 On the Approach Volume 1, Issue 4 Above and left: pre-pavement condition and repair at Sterling Airport (3B3). Left: pre-pavement condition and repainting the markings at Fal- mouth (5B6). Left: painting the numbers at Hanson- Cranland (28M). Above: completed crack Above: sealing the cracks at repair and com- Hopedale-Draper Indus- pletely new trial Park (1B6). Right: markings at crack repair and new mark- 28M. ings at the approach end of Runway 18 at 1B6. On the Approach Volume 1, Issue 4 Page 8 Above: centerline painting at Marlboro Airport (9B1). Above right: pre-project pavement and marking condition at Spencer Airport (60M). Above: completely new markings at 60M. Right: pre-project pavement and marking condition at Stow- Minuteman Air Field (6B6). Above: completely new markings at 6B6. Right: pre-project pavement and mark- ing condition at Northampton (7B2) and completely new markings. Page 9 On the Approach Volume 1, Issue 4 National Business Aviation Association’s Silk Scarf Award Honoring State Representative Donald Humason By: Dean Saucier (National Business Aviation Association) & Christopher Willenborg (MassDOT Aeronautics Division) The Silk Scarf Award was established by the National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) to recognize individuals who have contributed their time, talent, ability, commitment and dedication to the enhancement of general aviation but specifically, business and corpo- rate aviation. There are a select few individuals who distinguish themselves by recognizing the need to assist aviation because of the benefits that aviation brings to the community. There are fewer than 100 recipients of the Silk Scarf since its inception in 2000. This is one of the most prestigious awards bestowed on individuals by the NBAA. On Friday August 20 during the 2010 Westfield International Air Show Commander’s Re- ception at Westfield-Barnes Municipal Airport, an award ceremony was held to add another name to the list of distinguished recipients, State Representative Donald Humason. Representative Humason was recognized for his efforts and dedication to the enhancement of general aviation within the Commonwealth. As chairman of the Massachusetts State Leg- islature Aviation Caucus, the bipartisan Aviation Caucus has grown to include over 100 state legislators. His com- mitment to aviation in the Com- monwealth is unparal- leled. We sincerely thank State On Friday August 20, 2010 at Westfield- Representa- Barnes Municipal Airport, State Representative tive Huma- Donald Humason, Representative of the City of son for his Westfield, gives an acceptance speech as recipient continued of NBAA Silk Scarf Award. leadership and support of all airports throughout the Commonwealth. ■ From left to right: Dean Saucier, representing NBAA’s Northeast Regional Business Avia- tion Groups; State Representative Donald Humason, Representative of the City of Westfield; David Dineen, Executive Director of the Massachusetts Airport Management Association (MAMA); and Christopher Willenborg, MassDOT Aeronautics Division Administrator. Upcoming Events Date Location/Time Event Sep. 5 Plymouth Plymouth Air Fair Rain date Sep. 6 Municipal Airport Event sponsored by the Plymouth Aero Club. Event includes (10am - 4pm) an aerobatic air show, fly bys, a helicopter golf ball drop, plane and helicopter rides, aircraft static displays, vintage cars, exhibitors, raffle, children’s activities, and food vendors. Ad- mission is free but donations welcomed. All proceeds to benefit aviation scholarship funds and local charities. Event contacts: Brendan at Alpha One (508.747.1494) or Jeannie at Plymouth Airport Operations (508.746.2020). Page 10 On the Approach Volume 1, Issue 4 Upcoming Events Continued Date Location/Time Event Sep. 10 - 12 Sterling Airport Annual Town Fair Sterling Airport will host the annual town fair. While this requires the airport to be closed to flight operations, it does provide an opportunity for local pilots to meet with the community and promote general avia- tion. The Greater Boston Soaring Club and Urban Aviation Services will have aircraft and gliders on static display. Event Contact: Tom Duffy, Sterling Air Inc. [email protected] http://sterlingfair.org Sep. 11 Lawrence 2010 Northeast Light Sport Aircraft Expo Municipal Airport The event is hosted by the Greater Boston Chapter (Chapter 106) of (9am - 4pm) the Experimental Aircraft Association (EAA). The event will showcase a variety of light sport aircraft (LSA) including The Transition by Terra- fugia, the roadable aircraft (a.k.a the flying car) as well as LSA vendors and seminars. The event is free. Breakfast and lunch will be available for a fee. The event will take place adjacent to the terminal building (492 Sutton St., No. Andover, MA). See location www. Tiny- url.com/3odfe3 Event Contact: www.EAA106.org Sep. 15 - 17 Barnstable Vintage World War II Aircraft Municipal Airport On display and open for inspection as part of a national Wings of Free- (Sep. 15 2am-5pm) dom tour will be a B-17 Flying Fortress heavy bomber, a B-24 Libera- (Sep. 16 9am-5pm) tor and a P-51 Mustang. The aircraft will be displayed on the airport’s (Sep. 17 9am-12pm) East Ramp (access via Mary Dunn Road from Route 28 - free parking). Aircraft are operated by the non-profit organization, Collings Founda- tion, of Stow MA. Donations requested ($12 adults and $6 for children 12 and younger) to explore the planes inside and out. Special flights are available by calling 800.568.8924. Event Contact: Airport Manager Bud Breault at 508.775.2020 or at [email protected] Sep. 18 Mansfield Mansfield Airport Open House Municipal Airport (10am - 3pm) Sep. 19 Hanson-Cranland Experimental Aircraft Association Colonial Chapter 279 Fly-in Airport Breakfast (8am) Chapter 279 holds a pancake breakfast the third Sunday of each month from April to October. The breakfast sandwich includes: an egg, pan- cakes, Canadian bacon and cheese on an English muffin with coffee and orange juice for $6! Where are you going to get all that for $6? Event Contact: www.eaa279.org/279breakfast/breakfast.htm Sep. 26 Lawrence Annual Gold Star Mothers Fundraiser Municipal Airport American Gold Star Mothers is an organization of mothers who have (9am - 4pm) lost a son or daughter in the service of our country. This event is being sponsored by Eagle East Aviation and will include Senator Scott Brown as the keynote speaker. Oct. 2 Fitchburg Wings and Wheels Show Rain date Oct. 3 Municipal Airport The Fitchburg Pilots Association with the Ford V8 Club is hosting this (10am - 3pm) show to promote general aviation to the community. $5 entrance fee; children under 12 are free. Food available. Event Contact: www.fitchburgpilots.org