Hanscom Snow Crews Get Their Due for Work This Winter

Snow removal crews at Hanscom Field received recognition for their work over the winter when they had to deal with 69 inches of snow. 

The Northeast Chapter of the American Association of Airport Executives awarded the airfield in Bedford with the Balchen/Post Award for Outstanding Achievement in Airport Snow and Ice Control. The award is given in recognition of efforts of workers to keep their airports in safe and operational status, according to an announcement from MassPort.

“For airports operating in the Snow Belt, the Balchen Post award is considered top honors for a job well done,” said Hanscom Field Director Sharron Williams. “The importance of the Balchen/Post is that it is an endorsement by the pilots and businesses that depend on us to keep the airport open and functional during all weather conditions.”

In an average snow season Hanscom--located between Concord, Bedford, Lexington and Lincoln--receives 47 inches, 22 fewer than the 2012-13 season. The airfield got the award in the category of Large General Aviation Airport with over 50,000 annual operations.

Airports must be nominated for the award, and Hanscom received recommendations from the Independent Fixed Base Operators Association, Raytheon Company, Rectrix, and Swift Air.

“Throughout a very difficult winter season, including a blizzard that crippled the East Coast, Hanscom’s snow crews demonstrated time and again that the interests of the aviation community are always their top priority,” said Russell Arena, manager of aircraft operations at Raytheon Company. “The men and women charged with maintaining and operating the airfield did their absolute best to ensure a safe and efficient operation and for that we at Raytheon are thankful for their professionalism and dedication.”

Hanscom last won the award in 1991, and received honorable mention three of the last four years, according to MassPort.

The award, named for pioneering aviators Wiley Post and Bernt Balchen, was presented at the NE/AAAE 47th annual International Aviation Snow Symposium in Buffalo, N.Y.

Hanscom last won the award in 1991, and received honorable mention three of the last four years, according to MassPort.