Virginia Department of Aviation & Virginia Airport Operators Council

Written by Charlie Copeland

The Virginia Department of Aviation (DOAV) and the Virginia Airport Operators Council (VAOC) are two distinct entities working towards the advancement and support of the aviation sector in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Each organization plays a critical role in fostering the development, safety, and efficiency of aviation within the state, though they operate from different standpoints.

Virginia Department of Aviation

The Virginia Department of Aviation is a state agency tasked with cultivating an advanced aviation system that is safe, secure, and provides for economic development. Their responsibilities span a broad range of activities including airport development, promoting aviation education and careers, ensuring aviation safety, and representing the interests of the state in matters of national aviation policy. DOAV administers state and federal funding aimed at improving airport infrastructure and supports statewide aviation safety programs. The department places a strong emphasis on outreach and education, aspiring to inspire new generations towards careers in aviation through various educational initiatives and scholarship opportunities.

Virginia Airport Operators Council

The Virginia Airport Operators Council, on the other hand, is a membership-based organization representing the interests of airports across Virginia. VAOC serves as a collective voice for airport operators, advocating on legislative and regulatory matters affecting airports and the aviation industry at large. This council provides a platform for airport operators to share best practices, address operational challenges, and collaborate on common interests. Additionally, the VAOC works closely with entities like the Virginia Department of Aviation to foster a conducive environment for the growth and development of aviation within the state.

Collaborative Efforts

While DOAV focuses on the broader scope of aviation within Virginia from a regulatory and developmental perspective, VAOC zeroes in on the operational and advocacy aspects of airport management. Together, these organizations ensure a comprehensive approach to supporting aviation in Virginia—from infrastructure and safety to advocacy and education. Their collaborative efforts contribute significantly to the state's ability to maintain a robust, safe, and growing aviation sector, benefiting communities, economies, and aviation professionals alike. 

In essence, the synergy between the Virginia Department of Aviation and the Virginia Airport Operators Council underscores the commitment to excellence and progress within Virginia's aviation industry, ensuring it remains vibrant, competitive, and positioned for future advancements.


Scholarships:

John R. Lillard Scholarship/Kenneth R. Scott Scholarship

Multiple awards worth
$3,000 - $6,000
Deadline
1-Mar-24
Grade Level
High School Senior
The John R. Lillard Foundation, Inc. (the Foundation) distributes financial assistance to deserving students who are graduating from a public high school within the Commonwealth of Virginia and who are admitted to an institution of higher...