Bill Shea, center, poses with several NYAMA Past Presidents –
The New York Aviation Management Association (NYAMA) celebrated its 50th anniversary during its Fall Conference, held September 16–18, 2026, at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel. The milestone brought together aviation professionals, legislators, industry partners and association leaders to honor five decades of service to New York’s aviation community.
A highlight of the celebration was the participation of NYAMA founder Bill Shea, who, at nearly 98 years old, traveled across the country to attend. His presence provided a meaningful connection to the association’s beginnings in 1976 and the vision that continues to guide its work today.
During the anniversary program, Shea shared insights and reflections on NYAMA’s founding, the evolution of aviation and the importance of bringing industry leaders together around common goals. His remarks offered attendees a firsthand perspective on the association’s history and an opportunity to reflect on the dedication and relationships that have sustained it for half a century.
NYAMA presented Shea with the Founders Award, honoring his vision, leadership and lasting contributions to the association and New York’s aviation community. Joined by members of his family, Shea’s recognition was a memorable moment in an evening celebrating both his enduring legacy and the generations of aviation professionals who have helped advance NYAMA’s mission.
The conference also connected NYAMA’s history with its future through discussions on aviation leadership, management and issues facing airports and the broader industry. Past presidents and current leaders shared perspectives, while history displays and photographs invited attendees to revisit the people and milestones that have shaped the association.
New York State legislators Senator Thomas O’Mara, Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo and Assemblyman Phil Palmesano participated in the conference and presented NYAMA with a resolution commemorating its 50th anniversary.
The celebration included additional recognition of outstanding service to aviation. Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo received the Bill Shea Award in recognition of her longstanding leadership and advocacy, including nearly two decades as co-chair of the New York State Legislative Aviation Caucus. Madeline Arango of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey received the Bill McShane Service Award for her dedicated service to NYAMA.
As NYAMA begins its next chapter, the anniversary celebration reaffirmed the value of collaboration, advocacy and professional development in strengthening aviation across New York State.
