Staying at Top of Game
Chennault International Airport hosted a two-day, intensive safety training course this week for airport personnel across the state, including New Orleans, Alexandria and Shreveport. The Basic Airport Safety and Operations Specialist school trains airport personnel on how to enhance and improve the quality of service in Louisiana’s aerospace community.
More than 35 aviation personnel members learned flight line operations, airport markings, runway markings, fire-fighting requirements and several other key subjects as they relate to the Federal Aviation Association’s requirements.
The training represents Chennault’s commitment to being on the cutting edge in an industry that is always evolving and training, Kevin Melton, Chennault executive director, said.
“The training opportunities that we’re presenting here is just one facet of our big picture of aviation and aerospace. Our desire is to be a leader locally and statewide in aerospace operations.”
This week’s basic course is the first of three courses offered by the American Association of Airport Executives and Chennault plans to eventually offer them all, along with courses for pilots and other aspects of operations, Melton said.
“Training is what keeps you at the top of your game. We want to make Chennault a powerhouse, a center of excellence for those training opportunities.”
The airport is also a key player in the area’s economic landscape bringing in about $300 million annually in economic impact. It also employs 1,500 employees across its various tenants with plans to expand those numbers with new projects already in the works.
“Chennault provides Southwest Louisiana with economic diversity,” Melton said. “It is one of those entities that provides economic development and support to the community and we are full steam ahead with regards to development and finding companies to come in.”