NDOT Division of Aeronautics Announces Annual Awards
Jan. 29, 2026 (Lincoln, Neb.) — The Nebraska Department of Transportation (NDOT) announced a series of achievements recognizing excellence in aviation and transportation at the Nebraska Aviation Council’s annual symposium in Kearney on Jan. 28-29. The Lincoln Municipal Airport (LNK) was named Part 139
The Wayne Municipal Airport/Stan Morris Field (LCG) was named the 2025 Airport of the Year for its strong commitment to community relations. The Valentine Miller Field (VTN) apron expansion was selected as the 2025 Project of the year for elevating the airport’s operational capacity, safety, and long-term functionality. Additionally, NDOT celebrated the creativity of young Nebraskans through the 2026 Aviation Art Contest.
Lincoln Municipal Airport (LNK) Named Part 139 2025 Airport of the Year
The Lincoln Municipal Airport (LNK) was selected as the Part 139 2025 Airport of the Year for combining outstanding aviation services with meaningful public engagement and education. Services include full fuel and line support, hangars, charter handling, crew cars, top notch pilot and passenger amenities, and world-class maintenance and repair services, reinforcing LNK’s role as a national aviation services hub.
The airport dramatically elevated its public presence by hosting free community events, expanding national outreach through conference presentations, and delivering transformational commercial air service growth with new Breeze Airways and American Airlines routes. Robust educational programs, school partnerships, and hands-on experiences with EAA and Women in Aviation underscore LNK’s outstanding commitment to workforce development, inclusion, and inspiring the next generation.
Wayne Municipal Airport/Stan Morris Field (LCG) Named General Aviation 2025 Airport of the Year The Wayne Municipal Airport (LCG) was selected as the General Aviation 2025 Airport of the Year for demonstrating a strong commitment to community relations by providing quality pilot services, advancing aviation education, and actively promoting aviation across northeast Nebraska. Pilot services include self-service 100LL Avgas, courtesy cars, and on-field weather reports via AWOS.
The airport is also a regional hub for promoting the aviation industry and public engagement. The Wayne America Fly-In, an event that brought STOL drag races and National STOL competition to Wayne, attracting participants from across the U.S. and Canada, was brought to the airport. In addition, LCG’s educational and safety social media outreach garners more than 100,000 views, with continued engagement through major community events. LCG also supported the creation of an” Introduction to Aviation” course at Wayne State College.
Valentine Miller Field (VTN) Recognized for the 2025 Project of the Year
The 2025 Project of the Year award went to Valentine Miller Field (VTN) for the apron expansion project at Miller Field. The project is a transformative investment that significantly elevates the airport’s operational capacity, safety, and long-term functionality.
The project included construction of a new 400’x190’ apron and adding four new aircraft tie-downs, optimizing aircraft parking, improving circulation, and supporting increased aviation activity. Strategic relocation of existing tie-downs and the addition of new fillets on Taxiways A and C further enhance aircraft movement and reduce operational constraints.
The project demonstrates a strong commitment to safety and efficiency through comprehensive airfield improvements, including reconfigured taxiway lighting, upgraded lighting along new fillets, clearly defined pavement markings, relocating the rotating beacon and tip-down tower, and installing new apron perimeter fencing. Overall, the Apron Expansion Project exemplifies excellence in planning, design, and execution.
Winners of the 2026 Youth Aviation Art Contest
The 2026 U.S. and International Youth Aviation Art Contest wrapped up at the state level, with more than 80 Nebraska artists illustrating the theme, “Fly to Save Lives”.
More than 80 submissions were received by NDOT's Aeronautics Division, who has proudly sponsored the contest since its inception in 1986. Nebraska winners were selected in three age categories — Junior (6–9), Intermediate (10–13), and Senior (14–17). Winners will receive cash prizes and trophies sponsored by the Nebraska Aviation Council and advance to the national competition in Washington, D.C. and then move on to the international competition.
The nine winning art pieces will be displayed at various locations across the state to promote the contest and raise awareness about the importance of aviation in Nebraska. Aviation is critical for connecting communities, supporting economic growth, and providing essential services
To view all the artwork and learn more about the contest and traveling exhibit visit https://dot.nebraska.gov/aeronautics/. The 2027 competition will kick off in October 2026. To join the mailing list, please contact Mark Langrud, NDOT Division of Aeronautics chief pilot, at 402-471-2371 or [email protected]
This year’s winners are:
Place Youth’s Name Age Hometown or School
Junior Division (Ages 6-9)
1 Avery Powers 9 Plattsmouth
2 June Powers 6 Plattsmouth
3 Grace Schmidt 7 Cairo
Intermediate Division (ages 10-13)
1 Rory O’Donnell 13 Lincoln
2 Holly Hepburn 10 Lincoln
3 Elena Powers 12 Plattsmouth
Senior Division (Ages 14-17)
1 Kiersten Hans 15 Wynot
2 Graham Trompke 17 Loomis
3 Harlow Sides 16 Gering