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Naples Airport

Leading Environmental Stewardship in Aviation

by Chris Rozansky, Executive Director, Naples Airport Authority
he Naples Airport Authority (NAA) Unleaded Avgas (UL 94): In June 2023, the NAA began
continues to serve as an aviation offering UL 94 Avgas, becoming one of only three public airports
T leader by embracing environmentally in Florida to do so. The airport has seen nearly 20% of Avgas sales
sound practices and earning recognition for shift to UL 94, with the two local flight schools embracing this
its efforts to maintain the highest standards cleaner option.
of air, water, and soil quality. Through rigorous Master Drainage Plan: Building on prior successes in
testing, innovative practices, and a dedication stormwater treatment, the NAA’s new Master Drainage Plan
to conservation, the Naples Airport Authority incorporates advanced infrastructure to further enhance water
(NAA) is helping keep Naples clean, green, and sustainable for quality and minimize runoff impacts.
all. Fleet and Equipment Electrification: The airport has replaced
Results of Soil, Water Quality, and “Black Soot” Investigations fleet vehicles and ground support equipment with electric
In response to community concerns, the NAA has proactively alternatives and installed electric vehicle charging stations for
conducted a series of tests over the years to monitor and confirm public use in long-term parking.
the quality of local soil, water, and air. The most recent round of Carbon Accreditation: The NAA recently achieved Airports
testing, conducted in 2024, further reinforced the airport’s record Council International (ACI) Level 1 Carbon Accreditation,
of environmental safety and quality: highlighting its ongoing dedication to reducing greenhouse gas
Air Quality: No detectable traces of lead were found in air emissions.
sampling conducted at seven locations, both on and off airport Solar Integration: Solar panels are being added to facility
property. upgrades, contributing to cleaner energy use and furthering the
Soil Quality: Forty separate soil tests found that lead levels at airport’s sustainability goals.
the airport averaged 2.5 times less than those commonly found Land Conservation: The NAA has placed extensive tracts of
along Florida’s roadsides and were over 800 times below the land along the scenic Gordon River Greenway into permanent
regulatory threshold for residential exposure. conservation, ensuring these natural areas remain protected.
Groundwater Quality: Lead concentrations found in the Recognition for Environmental Excellence
airport’s groundwater samples were 16 times lower than the The NAA’s commitment to environmental stewardship has
Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) safe drinking water been recognized twice, receiving the prestigious J. Bryan Cooper
standards, well within regulatory limits. Environmental Award. In 2015, the NAA received the award for
“Black Soot” Tests: In collaboration with the City of Naples, its water filtration improvements, citing the pond along Airport
the NAA commissioned independent tests of what many Road to filter runoff from a large industrial park that ensures water
residents have observed as “black soot” on four occasions (2008, leaving the airport is close to its natural state.
2012, 2018, and 2023). Each test identified the material as In 2022, the NAA again earned the same award, this time
pollen—particularly from palm trees native to the area—rather for its Comprehensive Wildlife Management Program, which
than any petroleum-based material associated with aviation. balances wildlife protection with safety for pilots and passengers.
Recent Environmental Initiatives This program also received the Federal Aviation Administration
Beyond maintaining a clean record, the NAA has launched (FAA) Safety Award for 2022, further demonstrating Naples
several new initiatives that demonstrate its commitment to Airport’s leadership in sustainable aviation and community
environmental sustainability. These programs support the commitment.
Naples community and align with broader goals to reduce Want to learn more about NAA?
emissions and conserve natural resources: Visit the FAQ page of our website (flynaples.com/faq), or invite
Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF): The NAA is preparing a member of our team to speak with your group. Better yet, call us
to offer Sustainable Aviation Fuel, which will be available soon to arrange for a tour of the airport: (239) 643-0733
across the southeastern U.S. This fuel type can reduce aviation
emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuel.

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