The Erie International Airport “Snow Crews” have received the Balchen/Post Award, which was received at the 58th Annual International Aviation Snow Symposium on April 27 in Buffalo New York.
This award recognizes the crew for demonstrating their extraordinary capabilities to operate a safe environment for airlines, cargo carriers, and general aviation during the unforgiving winter season.
The Balchen/Post Award promotes excellence in snow and ice control and aims to recognize those who show outstanding performance. Throughout the 2025 to 2026 winter season the Erie Airport had 74.3 inches of snow with a two-year total of 185.5 inches.
The award had been named after Col. Bernt Balchen who had been a native of Norway. Balchen had pioneered the Arctic exploration and has a very distinguished career in aviation.
He had been the first person to pilot an aircraft over both poles. He eventually moved to the United States, became a U.S. citizen, and served in the U.S. Air Force. During his time in the forces, he was a recognized as a Distinguished Flying Cross recipient amongst many other recognitions.