The Ohio Aviation Association (OAA) presented its annual awards to recipients at a banquet held Tuesday, April 12, at its annual conference at the Holiday Inn Worthington in Worthington, Ohio. Awards were given to the Airport Manager of the Year, and two Aviation Businesses of the Year. Another award was given for Lifetime Achievement in Aviation.
David Sniffen, of Fostoria Metropolitan Airport in Fostoria, Ohio, was presented the Airport Manager of the Year award. Sniffen was responsible for the installation of new airfield lighting and a new runway extension. He was also recognized for maintaining an excellent facility that is known for its top notch customer service.
Ian Roberts, of Roberts Aviation in Hamilton, Ohio, was presented an Aviation Business of the Year award. Roberts Aviation recently relocated its aircraft turbine repair facility to the state of Ohio. In addition to the increased corporate jet traffic for Butler County Airport, Roberts serves as Director of Operation for a number of air charter companies.
Steve Buchenroth, of Midwest Corporate Air in Bellefontaine, Ohio, was presented an Aviation Business of the Year award. Midwest Corporate Air is a provider of accelerated multi-engine pilot training, and provides aircraft charter services.
John Bosch, of Commander Aero in Dayton, Ohio, was presented the 2011 Aviation Lifetime Achievement Award. Bosch, a frequent promoter for Ohio and the Dayton area, was a key contributor to re-shaping Dayton International Airport as a primary access point. He worked tirelessly in building connections between aviation businesses and non-profit organizations. Bosch is also a leader of several aviation organizations in the Dayton area and is the past chair of the National Aviation Heritage Alliance.
Nominations for the 2011 Ohio Aviation Awards were received by the Ohio Aviation Association Board of Directors throughout the year. Nominations were received from the Ohio Department of Transportation (ODOT), Ohio Department of Development, and OAA members. Recipients chosen are individuals who have made a significant contribution to Aviation in the State of Ohio.
The Ohio Aviation Association (OAA) represents the interests of over 18,000 pilots, 11,000 aircraft and 160 public use airports within the State of Ohio. Aviation in Ohio contributes over $10 billion in economic activity to the Ohio economy, and more than 142,000 jobs. More information can be found at OhioAviation.org.
