Jun. 18--Tucson International Airport was named the 2006 Arizona Airport of the Year by the Arizona Department of Transportation's aeronautics division for the first time in its history, since 1948.
The award is based on the airport's accomplishments in community relations, airport management and maintenance and innovative activities and programs.
Awards are based on a nomination process, said Jodi Sorrell, spokeswoman for ADOT. This year, Tucson International received three nominations, Sorrell said.
The airport was specifically recognized for starting some practices that are now considered industry standard.
The airport encompasses 8,000 acres. The Tucson Airport Authority, which runs the airport, employs 313 people.
In 1952, the airport sold the first airport bonds, according to an ADOT news release. This has since become a standard funding source for many airports in America, the release said.
Later, Tucson International allowed an "airport use agreement for airlines serving the community," according to the release. That agreement was also duplicated by other airports because it guaranteed growth.
All of the 90 publicly-owned and publicly-accessible airports in the state are eligible for the award, which is given after a nomination and review process, Sorrell said.
The airport will put up a sign announcing the award.
