The Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport) announced today that its system of airports- Boston's Logan International Airport, Bedford's L.G. Hanscom Field and Worcester Regional Airport, is the first in the U.S. to have all airport operations personnel certified by the American Association of Airport Executives. Known as Airport Certified Employee (ACE), the interactive program uses lectures and case studies to improve the skills of airport personnel in all aspects of operating their facilities. Those receiving certification must pass a written exam on FAA regulations and other airport-related material.
"Airports nationwide are being challenged to meet the growing demands of aviation," said Massport's Director of Aviation, Thomas J. Kinton Jr. "Massport viewed the ACE program as an opportunity for our operations professionals to learn the latest airport management techniques and to sharpen their skills through a very challenging curriculum and to share their knowledge and experiences with their counterparts across the country."
Airport operations personnel are responsible for the safe and secure day-to-day operation of the airfield. Responsibilities include the inspection of airfield lighting, signage and pavement conditions as well as emergency response, wildlife management and protection of approach surfaces in compliance with Federal Aviation Administration regulations. Massport employs 24 operations personnel throughout its airport network.
AAAE is the largest professional organization for airport executives in the world, representing thousands of airport management personnel at airports nationwide. The American Association of Airport Executives' primary goal is to assist airport executives in fulfilling their responsibilities to their airports and communities they serve.