~ Arizona Airport Passport Program ~
AZAPP
By Trent Heidtke
Inquiring minds probably want to know what the status of the Arizona Airport Passport Program (AZAPP) heading into October is. Well, in short, we made good progress in the month of September. The great news is that as we write this column, there are 44 signs in the hands of airport managers throughout the state. The other great news is that virtually every airport manager we have talked with is 100% supportive of the program and eager to put the signs up for us at their facilities. A few keep dodging us but we will prevail!
Next, our partner Embry Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU), reminded us that you will need to be running V2 of the app when you begin scanning the placards. Currently we are working with them on how to make the app show up in a variety of searches beyond just “FLYAZ” which previously was the only one that consistently worked. Anyone interested in the program should visit either the Apple App store or Google Play and download the application.
Last but not least, APA is working on adding pages to our website in support of the application. Coming soon, there will be a new main page link to pages that list the program overview, program rules and disclaimers, and a list of all the participating airports and where the placards are located!
Phase 2 of the program, commencing in the middle part of October, will be to bring the airport restaurants and museums on board with their own unique placards. We are hoping all identified businesses will still want to join the program but will keep everyone updated via the new web pages. A pro tip would be to check the page with participating airports and businesses before heading out to make sure placards are in place and you will get credit for the visit.
Remember, if you have used the app and have feedback, feel free to contact Trent Heidtke at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. We appreciate anything in the way of comments so that we can make the program better along the way.