(Lincoln, Neb.) Gov. Dave Heineman announced today that Stu MacTaggart, Director of the Nebraska Department of Aeronautics, has decided to retire in August. His last day will be Aug. 7.<\/p>\n
“I appreciate Stu’s work during the past five years,” Gov. Heineman said. “He has provided outstanding leadership for the Department of Aeronautics, and I know he is well-respected by the aviation industry. His career has included military and combat service, as well as leadership roles in the public and private sector. I want to thank him for his service, and I wish him and his family well.”<\/p>\n
MacTaggart was appointed in 2004 by then-Gov. Mike Johanns and was reappointed by Gov. Heineman. As the state director of aeronautics he coordinates policy discussions with the Aeronautics Commission, is responsible for a statewide system of navigation aids, and coordinates department activities with federal and local agencies.<\/p>\n
He has been with Aeronautics since 1998, leading education efforts in addition to working as a pilot. Prior to coming to work for the State of Nebraska, MacTaggart had been head of the Operations Inspection team of the Strategic Air Command in Omaha and worked as a flight instructor for a major airline.<\/p>\n
MacTaggart also completed four combat tours in the U.S. Air Force, and held several command and staff positions including command of the 328th Bombardment Squadron. He retired as a command pilot and full colonel with decorations including the Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal and the Legion of Merit. <\/p>\n
MacTaggart said, “It has been a distinct honor to serve on Governor Heineman’s distinguished cabinet. With the support and with the help of a talented and dedicated Aeronautics Commission, we have made some very positive improvements in our state’s airports. I am particularly proud of our work to develop new instrument approaches and weather reporting systems. I would like to thank the entire Aeronautics team—flight operations, engineering, navigational aids, accounting, and those working at state-owned airfields. It has truly been an honor to work with each of them. I am especially grateful to Governor Heineman for his confidence and unwavering support.”<\/p>\n
The Department of Aeronautics maintains and directs the Nebraska Aviation System Plan and the use of state and federal funding for airport development. The department oversees the state’s 81 public-use airports and manages three airports, and staffs a team of pilots providing air transportation for state officials.<\/p>\n
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