The Utah Department of Transportation (UDOT) Division of Aeronautics continues to oversee a statewide transportation system comprising airports, aircraft, and air routes as part of its mission to enhance quality of life through improved mobility and economic strength. The division manages 46 public-use airports across the state while focusing on aviation safety and infrastructure development.
Core Division Responsibilities
According to UDOT, the Division of Aeronautics operates through six core functions designed to support the state's aviation needs. These primary responsibilities include airport system planning, aviation rule making, and managing airport project funding. Additionally, the division is tasked with aircraft registration, aviation promotion, and maintaining aviation safety standards throughout Utah.
Strategic Aviation Development Framework
To guide the long-term trajectory of the state's aviation infrastructure, the division utilizes the 2020 Aviation Development Strategy. This strategic framework includes both a Statewide Aviation System Plan and a Statewide Economic Impact Study specifically targeting the state's 46 public-use airports. The strategy is intended to measure how these facilities contribute to the broader Utah economy.
Economic Impact Study Details
The economic impact study associated with this strategy provides a summary of key findings regarding the financial contributions generated by the airport system for the state. However, UDOT noted that all economic impacts estimated within this specific study reflect pre-COVID conditions.
Leadership and Management Overview
The division's leadership is headed by Director Matthew (Matt) Maass, C.M., who oversees the management of the statewide transportation system. Maass, who joined UDOT in 2022 in the role of Economic & Aviation Development Manager, plays a central role in supporting business development and aerospace innovation.
Director Background and Expertise
Maass is also specifically tasked with the development of Advanced Air Mobility infrastructure within the state. His professional background includes serving as a Project Manager for Precision Approach Engineering, as well as holding leadership positions such as Deputy Director/State Airports Manager for the Oregon Department of Aviation and Deputy Director of Airports for the Kern County Department of Airports in Bakersfield, California.
Aviation Resources and Services
Beyond infrastructure management, the Division of Aeronautics provides various resources for Utah aviators and stakeholders. These services include flight reservations, aircraft registration processes, and the Fly Utah Passport program. The division also manages aviation grants and airport planning initiatives to ensure the continued growth of the state's air routes.
The division's operational framework is built upon the UVision, a quality of life framework that emphasizes good health, better mobility, a strong economy, and connected communities.
The Division of Aeronautics maintains its headquarters at 135 North 2400 West in Salt Lake City. The division also manages its Title VI plan to ensure compliance with federal requirements and provides public access to organizational charts and contact information for general inquiries.
