Sedona Airport has recently garnered the prestigious title of 2025 ADOT Airport of the Year, a nod to the airport's steadfast commitment to community engagement, safety, and environmental sustainability. As reported by ADOT, this accolade is a testament to the concerted efforts helmed by General Manager Ed Rose, who has not only fortified the airport's infrastructure and services but also solidified relationships within the community.
From participating in roundtable discussions to sitting on the chamber of commerce's board, Rose's leadership is indicative of an airport inextricably woven into the civic tapestry of Sedona and Oak Creek. According to an ADOT news release, such engagement has churned forth progress like the much-needed secondary access road, principally aimed at amplifying safety and accessibility. Flying beside this development, the community and airport management are collaboratively tackling an enhanced fire suppression water plan, which includes a 250,000-gallon water tank to augment emergency response capabilities.
A green footprint is what Sedona Airport aims to leave, and the initiative of offering jet fuel comprised of 30% sustainable, non-fossil materials is a stride in that direction. Sedona's commitment to the well-being of our shared environment was highlighted during an Arizona State University Energy Audit. This audit precipitated a shift to energy-efficient LED hangar lighting and the replacement of outdated heating systems, thus reducing the airport’s carbon emissions and lowering energy costs, as noted by ADOT.
In the realm of technological advancements, the airport, with the aid of grant funding through ADOT, has upgraded its Automated Weather Observation System, equipping pilots with the latest and most precise airfield conditions. This second-time recipient of the state's Airport of the Year honor, the first triumph dating back to 1993, stands poised at the forefront of aviation evolution in Arizona. Sedona Airport is now counted among the 67 public airports in the state that benefit from ADOT’s Aeronautics Group's endeavours to channel grant funding into eligible capital improvement projects.
