The mission of the Aeronautics Division is to promote aviation throughout the Commonwealth while establishing an efficient, integrated airport system that enhances airport safety, customer service, economic development, and environmental stewardship.
The Aeronautics Division has jurisdiction over the Commonwealth’s 35 public use airports and multiple heliports, private restricted landing areas, and seaplane bases. This includes all Massachusetts airports except for Logan International Airport, Worcester Regional Airport, and Hanscom Field in Bedford which are owned and operated by the Massachusetts Port Authority (Massport).
The division certifies airports and heliports, licenses airport managers, conducts annual airport inspections, and enforces safety and security regulations. The additional responsibilities of the Aeronautics Division include:
- Overseeing the Statewide Airport Capital Improvement Program,
- Developing statewide aviation safety programs,
- Overseeing state-owned navigational aids (NAVAIDS),
- Conducting statewide aviation planning studies,
- Implementing statewide airport security initiatives
- Promoting statewide aviation education
- Supporting the integration of Advanced Air Mobility next generation vehicle operations, and
- Leading the introduction and integration of advanced aviation technologies
Scorecard
| Performance Goal | Performance Measure | Current Performance (FY23) | FY22 | 2024 Target | 2026 Target | Long Term Target |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Budget & Capital Expenditures |
Capital Budget Disbursement | 98% | 100% | 95% | 95% | 100% | Contracts Completed on Budget | 95% | 93% | 92% | 92% | 92% | Contracts Completed on Time | 95% | 94% | 92% | 92% | 92% |
 Customer Experience |
Number of Departments Utilizing Drones | 15 | 15 | Context Only | Number of Drone Flights | 952 | 940 | Number of Drone Missions | 358 | 347 | Percent of Aircraft Registered | 99% | 84% | 87% | 87% | 90% | Percent of Aircraft Registered Electronically | 90% | 88% | Context Only |
 Safety |
Airport Safety and Emergency Management Training Attendance Rate | 100% | 90% | 75% | 75% | 75% | Airport Safety Inspections Completed (CY22) | 10 | 10 | 12 | 12 | 12 |
 System Condition |
Pavement Condition (PCI) | 71 | 71 | 72 | 72 | 72 |
