Receive Security Awareness Partnership Awards

Six general aviation airports in Illinois were recently given Security Awareness Partnership awards for their vigilance in reporting suspicious activity to the TSA's 24/7 operations center, and local TSA offices.

The airports are Quincy Regional/Baldwin Field; Galesburg Municipal; Mount Carmel Municipal; Southern Illinois (Carbondale); Saint Louis Regional (East Alton); and Canton Ingersoll. All six participate in the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association's Airport Watch Program.

"The excellent work of our transportation security inspectors, in concert with our local GA partners, shows the nation that all eyes are watching and we are working together to secure the skies," said Pat Broderick, the federal security director at Quad City International Airport who oversees the six GA airports.

On several occasions these airports investigated suspicious incidents. For example, Quincy staff received unusual telephone calls regarding flight instruction, according to TSA. And at Galesburg an individual observed taking photos became irate when questioned. In each case, investigators determined there was no threat.

"Airports around the country are using Airport Watch -- and it works," said Rob Hackman, AOPA senior director of regulatory affairs. "It has been cited in numerous government studies as a program that enhances airport security without imposing a burden on pilots or airport personnel. Following the voluntary steps in Airport Watch could help prevent future federally mandated restrictions."

FMI: www.aopa.org, www.tsa.gov