Bonnell Selected To "Help Shape The Future Of Aviation" In State

Aero-News has learned Timothy K. Bonnell, Sr. was recently appointed to the Kansas State Aviation Advisory Committee (KSAAC). Bonnell, president and founder of PIM Aviation Insurance, received the notification from Deb Miller, Kansas Secretary of Transportation.

Miller underscored the significance of the appointment, noting "Your input can help shape the future of aviation in Kansas."

The KSAAC supports the Secretary of Transportation, responding to requests for information and advice. It explores airport infrastructure-related topics and considerations as well as issues affecting the state’s aviation system, state and federal legislation, aviation’s economic impact in Kansas, aviation education and promotion. The committee’s work leads to specific recommendations in these areas.

"I consider it a great honor and privilege to serve, especially at such a pivotal time," said Bonnell. "The Department of Transportation faces tremendous challenges and opportunities as we work to ensure our state’s continued leadership role in the aviation industry and to provide a 21st-century aviation infrastructure that promotes economic growth and ever-greater efficiencies."

The state’s Comprehensive Transportation Program (1999-2009) is drawing to a close. The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) recently completed a long-range planning process and is working with the Governor’s T-Link (Transportation–Leveraging Investment in Kansas) taskforce. A plan for the Kansas aviation system launched in 2008.

The KSAAC worked diligently to promote the 2008 All Kansas Air Tour, held last April. It celebrated the 80th anniversary of a seven-day, 25-aircraft tour "to spread the air gospel" throughout the state. The 1928 tour began in Wichita and the fleet touched down in a total of 21 communities. The anniversary tour took place last April with small aircraft touring cities across the state.

"This aspect of committee service appeals to me greatly," says Bonnell, who also serves as president of the Kansas Aviation Museum’s executive board. "I’ve been a lifetime champion of our state’s aviation heritage and this gives me a greater platform from which to do it."

FMI: www.ksdot.org, www.pimi.com/