Mary Rose Loney Named Recipient of 2020 ACC Aviation Award of Excellence

Mary Rose Loney was announced as recipient of the 2020 Airport Consultants Council (ACC) Aviation Award of Excellence on Nov. 13, during the ACC 42nd Annual Conference & Exposition Membership Meeting.

The Aviation Award of Excellence is presented annually to recognize an individual’s extraordinary contributions to the aviation industry that are visionary and innovative, have advanced the industry, and have served the good of the general public.

This is the first time the award was presented posthumously, as Loney passed away in September at the age of 68. She was recognized for her significant contributions to airports, the aviation industry and her commitment to, and support of colleagues who were privileged to work with her. Loney was a trailblazer, becoming the first woman to serve as Chicago's Aviation Commissioner during a time when women were not in positions of airport leadership.

During her four year tenure in Chicago she accomplished much, including instituting a more competitive bidding process, developing the long term capital program at O’Hare, and launching the Midway Airport Development project. Prior to this appointment, she worked as the city’s first deputy aviation commissioner and eventually moved on to be the Airport Director at the Philadelphia International Airport.

Loney also shined in business as the president of her consulting firm, The Loney Group, LLC. She was an effective business woman, able to work effectively across airport and federal government lines to reach agreements that benefited all parties. For example, Mary Rose was a key facilitator in the transition of security responsibility from the FAA to the TSA in the early days.

“ACC is pleased to recognize and celebrate the many contributions of Mary Rose Loney over her tremendous career,” said ACC President T.J. Schulz. “She broke many barriers and stands as a great example at a time when ACC and the aviation industry is focusing more on increasing opportunities and advancement for women and minorities.”