In a historic move to commemorate the legacy of Alaska’s longest-serving Congressman, Governor Dunleavy Introduces legislation that renames the Fairbanks International Airport to the Don Young Fairbanks International Airport. HB 288 (SB 202), marking a significant tribute to the late Congressman Don Young, honors his lifetime of service to the State of Alaska and advocacy for the construction, maintenance, and safety of the State’s transportation infrastructure.
“Don Young’s passing may have marked the end of an era, but his impact will resonate for generations to come,” said Alaska Governor Dunleavy. “The renaming of the Fairbanks International Airport is a fitting tribute to a man who championed the importance of Alaska’s transportation infrastructure and whose advocacy is benefiting Alaskans and visitors every day.”
Don Young advanced transportation development while serving in both chambers of the Alaska State Legislature and throughout his tenure as the longest-serving Republican Congressman in the nation’s history. As a state legislator, Young championed legislation to modernize Alaska’s air commerce system and require that aircraft be outfitted with radio beacon devices for emergency rescue. In Congress, Young served as chair of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and sponsored numerous bills to reshape infrastructure and safety requirements. Young was also keenly aware of the vital role of air transportation in Alaska and sponsored bills to streamline airline communication to reduce flight delays, provide economic support for the continued operation of airlines affected by the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, protect pilots from in-flight dangers, and authorize improvement grants for small airport safety infrastructure.
By renaming the Fairbanks International Airport to the Don Young Fairbanks International Airport, the State honors Don Young and stands as a lasting tribute to a man whose heart was as vast as the state he so dearly loved.
