Press Room

Posted on: Fri, 09/29/2023 - 11:21

Alan D. Wapner, President of the Ontario International Airport Authority Board of Commissioners and City of Ontario Council Member, issued the following statement on the passing of United States Senator Dianne Feinstein on behalf of the OIAA Commission:

“We were deeply saddened at the passing of Senator Feinstein, a highly respected national leader, icon of California politics and devoted public servant.  I was blessed to foster a personal friendship with the Senator.

“Her support and effort were crucial to the return of Ontario International Airport to local ownership in 2016. She understood the importance of ONT to the Inland Airport and the vital role it plays in meeting the growing demand for air service throughout Southern California and being a powerful economic force for the region.

“She brought together leaders from the Inland Empire and Los Angeles following local concerns over the future of the airport. She was instrumental in the creation of an agreement which ultimately led to the transfer of ownership back to Ontario. She later introduced federal legislation that facilitated the transfer.

“In 2022, the OIAA Commission named the airport’s Federal Inspection Station facility and any future international terminal in her honor.

“We extend our deepest condolences to her family, colleagues and all who loved her. Senator Feinstein was a friend, incredible leader and great American.”

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About Ontario International Airport

Ontario International Airport (ONT) is the fastest growing airport in the United States, according to Global Traveler, a leading publication for frequent fliers. Located in the Inland Empire, ONT is approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles in the center of Southern California. It is a full-service airport which offers nonstop commercial jet service to nearly two dozen major airports in the U.S., Mexico, Central America and Taiwan. More information is available at www.flyOntario.com. Follow @flyONT on Facebook, X, and Instagram

About the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA)

The OIAA was formed in August 2012 by a Joint Powers Agreement between the City of Ontario and the County of San Bernardino to provide overall direction for the management, operations, development and marketing of ONT for the benefit of the Southern California economy and the residents of the airport's four-county catchment area. OIAA Commissioners are Ontario City Councilmember Alan D. Wapner (President), Retired Riverside Mayor Ronald O. Loveridge (Vice President), Ontario City Councilmember Jim W. Bowman (Secretary), San Bernardino County Supervisor Curt Hagman (Commissioner) and retired business executive Julia Gouw (Commissioner)