As fall approaches, I would like to recognize the efforts of Van Nuys Airport’s (VNY) tenants and employees who worked to ensure the safety and security of passengers during the busy summer travel season. In collaboration with airport businesses, my team is committed to operating the airport in a manner that is both responsive to business and responsible to the community.
As part of this effort, in June VNY was pleased to honor 40 jet operators and pilots with Friendly Flyer Awards for strict adherence to our noise abatement policies and procedures. In addition, we hosted a successful Aviation Careers Education Academy aimed at introducing middle and high school students to opportunities in the aviation and aerospace industries. More than 50 young people from the local area participated in the free, week-long program featuring tours and workshops at both VNY and LAX.
To provide assistance to firefighters in our community, two Bombardier CL-415 “Super Scooper” aircraft recently arrived at the airport on loan from Quebec, Canada, along with a specialized Erickson Air-Crane helicopter. They join the L.A. County Fire Department’s existing fleet of firefighting aircraft which provide critical air support to first responders on the ground.
In addition, the Board of Airport Commissioners has awarded a three-year, nearly $21 million contract to Griffith Company covering the first phase of a 14-month project to rehabilitate Taxiways A and B at VNY. HNTB Corporation has also been awarded a $2.5 million contract to provide professional engineering design and construction support services for the phased project which includes lighting, signage and other work to significantly improve the aircraft operating area.
Capital improvement projects at Jet Aviation and The Park VNY are also moving forward. Jet Aviation’s demolition is almost complete and grading is in process, with construction beginning soon. The Park VNY is scheduled for completion in mid-2019, culminating with its main terminal area.
Finally, I am excited to announce that community members are invited to visit The Park VNY this Saturday and Sunday, September 16-17, for a series of free events. The “Fly-In” will feature pancake fundraisers, aircraft displays, exhibits, guest speakers, movie screenings and more! Attendance is limited and by reservation only. For more information and to register for this event, please visit: www.eventbrite.com/e/prop-park-fly-in-at-van-nuys-airport-tickets-48753440854.
As VNY commemorates its 90th in 2018, I am confident that together we can make even greater strides in achieving the Gold Standard in safety, security, sustainability and service at VNY. Thank you for your ongoing interest and support.
Sincerely,
Flora Margheritis, C.M.
Van Nuys Airport Manager
