Hood Aerodrome has achieved Civil Aviation Authority Part 139 Certification, marking a significant milestone for aviation in the Wairarapa region.

Certification requires a higher level of safety, security and operational standards, ensuring compliance with international regulations and promoting a positive safety culture that operators and pilots look for when choosing where to land.

Hood Aerodrome now meets these standards. This recognition follows extensive work by Council staff and external partners to bring the facility and safety management processes up to CAA requirements.

"I'm delighted we received formal confirmation from Civil Aviation that Hood Aerodrome is now certified," Chief Executive of Hood Aerodrome and the Council's Group Manager Infrastructure, Maseina Koneferenisi, said.

"This achievement reflects the significant efforts of many staff members and external partners. I want to acknowledge the dedication and collaboration that made this possible.

“Hood Aerodrome is a key piece of infrastructure for the Masterton district and the Wairarapa region. The certification represents another step in the journey to establish Hood as a growing aviation hub for the Wairarapa.”

The aerodrome continues to support recreational flying, flight training, and commercial aviation activities.

Being a Certified Airport provides assurance to both CAA and the aviation Industry that safety is taken seriously at Hood Aerodrome, which will flow onto attracting interest in the current Hangar site developments.

Certification is complemented with the runway and lighting improvements and makes Hood more attractive for commercial passenger services who are qualified to operate under CAA Part 125 (aircraft with 30 seats or less).

Pilots and aviation enthusiasts can find more information about Hood Aerodrome services at www.mstn.govt.nz. People wanting to secure one of the newly developed Hood Aerodrome hangar sites can register their interest at www.hoodaerodrome.co.nz.

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