The Arizona Pilots Association in conjunction with programming assistance from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University (ERAU) has announced the launch of Arizona’s very own Airport Passport Program (AZAPP). In doing so, the pilot group joins with nine other states which are already running successful Airport Passport Programs. What makes Arizona’s program unique is that instead of paper passport books and inked stamps, all participating pilots need to do is scan a QR code on posted placards using the Fly AZ app and they are automatically logged as having visited a specific location.
All this was made possible by a
great relationship with ERAU. When approached
about the project, ERAU was immediately excited about the ability for students
to get real world application development experience. The bonus being it was centered around
aviation and the students received college credit for their roles in producing
the app.
Arizona’s
Airport Passport Program is designed to promote general aviation’s use of virtually
all 56 of Arizona’s public-use airstrips and airports. Also included are many
airport restaurants and aviation themed museums. The complete listing of program
participants along with QR code placard locations can be found on the Arizona
Pilots Association website under the icon labeled Passport App. Simultaneously,
the program is intended to help improve education and safety by encouraging
pilots to practice safety first flight planning and trips to many different
airport environments and VFR weather conditions. And finally, the program is
intended to promote tourism, stimulate local businesses and attractions, and to
generate a sense of camaraderie and purpose amongst pilots more than just the
proverbial $100 hamburger or breakfast run on weekends.
This
application-based program is open to all FAA licensed pilots. The app will
track progress and as pilots reach pre-set milestones, prizes for participation
will be awarded for each level achieved. The application is available in both
iOS and Android formats, but will require use of a smartphone or tablet and
sharing of some nominal personal information in exchange for participating. On
the Google Play Store interested participants should search for FlyAZ by Lunar
Languages Team and on the Apple App Store, it is listed under Fly AZ by
Heather Marriott.
Prizes will
be awarded at differing levels of progress. Specific prizes are TBD and
dependent on program sponsorship from year to year.
Silver Level: 20 airports, +1
museum, +1 restaurant
Gold Level:
+20 airports, +2 museums, +1 attraction, +2 restaurants
Platinum
Level: +16 airports, +2 museums, +1 attraction, +2 restaurants
