Prairie State Wire

Reflecting the significance of Illinois' aviation network, six airports have been honored with Airport of the Year awards by the Illinois Department of Transportation. The announcement was made during the Illinois Public Airports Association Fall Conference in Galena.

"Illinois serves as the nexus of North America's transportation network, with aviation playing a key role in moving passengers and freight around the state, country and world," stated Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. "Our aviation partners, from massive international airports to smaller regional facilities to a single grass landing strip, are vital to our state's economy and mobility. These awards represent our thanks for the services they provide."

The awardees were chosen based on their achievements such as partnership with IDOT and commitment to safety and customer satisfaction. Factors like cooperation with the state, safety records, facility maintenance, and promotion of aviation events were considered.

The 2023 award recipients include Willard Airport in Champaign as Primary Airport of the Year; Lewis University Airport in Romeoville as Reliever Airport of the Year; Mount Vernon Outland Airport as Large General Aviation Airport of the Year; Salem-Leckrone Field as Small General Aviation Airport of the Year; Tri-County Airport in Yates City as Private Airport of the Year; and Vertiport Chicago as Heliport of the Year.

Illinois hosts 100 public-use airports and heliports with nearly 3,000 aircraft registered by the Federal Aviation Administration. This network supports over 492,000 jobs with a combined payroll of $21.9 billion and an economic impact totaling $95.4 billion. Across Illinois, there are more than 700 aviation facilities including heliports and various types of landing facilities.

Under Gov. Pritzker's Rebuild Illinois capital program, IDOT is investing $150 million into aviation infrastructure. In 2021, a $94 million commitment was announced for state airports along with $11.5 million in local contributions for a total investment of $105 million—the largest capital investment for airports in Illinois history.

For more information about aviation initiatives in Illinois or to view the Illinois Aviation System Plan, visit www.ilaviation.com.