(STILLWATER, OK) – The City of Stillwater proudly announced that Stillwater Regional Airport (SWO) received the prestigious Airport of the Year Award for 2025, recognizing its excellence in infrastructure improvements, community engagement, and operational standards; and Director Kellie Reed was named the Airport Manager of the Year by the Oklahoma Airport Operators Association (OAOA).
"Through outstanding leadership and staff support, and their overall commitment to excellence, Stillwater Regional Airport has received much-earned honors that reflect remarkable improvements in safety, services, and operations. I commend the dedication of our entire SWO team and their efforts," Assistant City Manager Christy Cluck said.
The annual OAOA award ceremony includes industry leaders, government officials, and aviation professionals to celebrate achievements of Oklahoma’s airports and their operators. The awards highlight the vital role that airports play in connecting communities, fostering economic development, and enhancing the state’s infrastructure.
OAOA’s immediate Past President Austin Wheeler expressed, “This year’s awardees exemplify the exceptional leadership and innovation we see across Oklahoma’s aviation industry. Kellie Reed’s dedication and vision have been instrumental in the success of Stillwater Regional Airport, and we are thrilled to celebrate her as our Airport Manager of the Year. Similarly, Stillwater Regional Airport’s achievements serve as an inspiration to all airports in the state, and we are proud to recognize them as Airport of the Year.”
The airport continues to receive recognition for outstanding achievements throughout the past year, while also under construction with the new terminal that will open early fall 2026. From significant strides to enhance safety, expand services, and increase the economic footprint for the Stillwater community, to strengthening operations for passenger satisfaction – SWO has set a high standard for smaller airports that offer commercial flights.
Under Director Reed’s leadership, SWO continues to facilitate nearly 80,000 annual operations, including daily commercial service by American Airlines, flights from Oklahoma State University’s aviation program, and athletic charter flights, solidifying its role as a key gateway for the region.
Reed returned to Stillwater in summer 2023, and continues demonstrating outstanding leadership and dedication, guiding improvements throughout the airport and service options. Her efforts notably advance the airport’s infrastructure and strengthen community ties, reinforcing SWO as a vital transportation asset for Stillwater and surrounding communities.
The Oklahoma Airport Operators Association (OAOA) is a professional organization that represents the interests of airports aviation professionals, and stakeholders in Oklahoma. OAOA aims to promote safe, efficient, and effective airport operations across the state while providing a platform for networking, education, and collaboration within the aviation industry.
