Pendleton Airport named General Aviation Airport of the Year
Honor from Oregon Airport Management Association
The Pendleton Airport is proud to announce that it has been awarded the prestigious General Aviation Airport of the Year by the Oregon Airport Management Association (OAMA). This accolade recognizes the Pendleton Airport’s exceptional contributions to aviation, innovation, and community engagement.
Dan Bandel, Airport Manager for the City of Pendleton, accepted the award on Monday, Sept. 30, at the OAMA Conference in Eugene Oregon.
"My team’s primary goal is to ensure the safety and efficiency of our operations,” Bandel said. “Every day, we go all-out to provide a seamless travel experience for our passengers while maintaining the highest standards of safety and security. This award reflects great credit on each member of our team. Administration, maintenance, engineering, air traffic and Range Control all played essential rolls in making this happen. I am honored to work with such motivated professionals."
Oregon is home to more than 90 general aviation airports, each playing a vital role in the state’s transportation network and economic development. Among these, the Eastern Oregon Regional Airport, better known as the Pendleton Airport, has distinguished itself through its pioneering efforts in Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) research and testing.
Exceeding Expectations in UAS Research and Testing
The Pendleton Airport has become a national leader in UAS research, development, testing and evaluation. The airport’s UAS Range is one of the most active in the United States, attracting businesses and researchers from across the country and internationally. This facility has been instrumental in advancing UAS technology, providing a safe and controlled environment for testing and innovation.
A Hub for Innovation and Economic Growth
The ongoing developments at the Pendleton UAS Range and the Oregon UAS Accelerator have positioned the airport as a key player in the tech and aviation sectors. These advancements have not only boosted the local economy but also transformed the airport into a hub for innovation.
About the Pendleton Airport
Located in Northeast Oregon, the Pendleton Airport, 2016 Airport Road, Pendleton, is the largest public airport in the region. It offers a variety of services, including daily round-trip flights between Pendleton and Portland, hangar rentals, and industrial park facilities. The Triple Nickles, the first all-black paratrooper battalion in the U.S. military, were stationed at Pendleton Airport during WWII, as part of Operation Firefly. Additionally, the vast majority of the incredibly brave men who went on to become the legendary Doolittle Raiders, who turned the tide of American morale during WWII, all began their flying careers training at Pendleton Airport.
For more information about Pendleton Airport, call 541-276-7754 or visit www.pendletonairport.com
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- October 10, 2023
