(FAIRBANKS, Alaska) – The Northeast Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives (NEC AAAE) announced Tuesday, April 25, 2017 that Fairbanks International Airport was awarded Honorable Mention for the Balchen Post Award for Medium Hub Commercial Airports. This is the first time the airport has earned this award, which honors airports for excellence in the performance of snow and ice control.

Melissa Osborn, Chief of Operations at Fairbanks International Airport said, “It's an honor to have FAI Operations and Maintenance staff recognized for their dedication and professionalism in ensuring FAI maximizes both safety and efficiency during winter weather events.”

As of March 13, 2017 FAI’s 2016-2017 seasonal snowfall was approximately 80 inches. From December through February, 73 inches of snow accumulated at the airport compared to 2.5 inches during the 2015-2016 season. The airport remained open and operational throughout all 13 weather events that were recorded.

Clark Klimaschesky, Chief of Maintenance at Fairbanks International Airport said, “I am proud of the maintenance department and the entire FAI team who dedicates themselves to ensuring the airport remains open and operational. They deserve this recognition.

The Alaska International Airport System, comprised of Ted Stevens Anchorage and Fairbanks International Airports, is home to over 30 international and domestic airlines providing passenger and cargo service throughout Alaska, the United States, Europe, and Asia. AIAS is an extraordinary economic engine; serving more than 6 million passengers per year and accounting for 1 in 10 jobs in Anchorage and 1 in 20 jobs in Fairbanks. The purpose of AIAS is "To Keep Alaska Flying and Thriving."

The Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities oversees 237 airports, 9 ferries serving 35 communities along 3,500 marine miles, over 5,600 miles of highway and 839 public facilities throughout the state of Alaska. The mission of the department is to “Keep Alaska Moving through service and infrastructure.”

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