The Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) hosted the Russian Minister of Transport, Igor Levitin, and an eight-member delegation at O'Hare International Airport on June 23.
Levitin and the delegation met with CDA Commissioner Rosemarie S. Andolino and senior staff members during their visit. Their discussion covered numerous airport management topics, including safety and security, operations, construction, sustainability, financial and legal procedures at O'Hare and Midway International Airports.
The group also toured one of O'Hare's terminals, learned about the CDA's Sustainable Airport Manual and participated in discussions about airport construction, terminal recycling, water, power and emissions management.
Levitin says he traveled to O'Hare International Airport to learn about the development of airport infrastructure and how to adapt those practices for the benefit of Russian airport operations.
"We want to remain competitive with other European airports and we want to learn from Chicago's experience as leaders in airport development and management,� Levitin says. "The delegation and our specialist found the meeting very fruitful and effective and we look forward to collaborating with the Chicago Department of Aviation to learn more about the organizational structure management, negotiations, and security.�
The Russian officials expressed an interest in forming a working group to share technical, commercial and environmental best practices, and establish committees to work cooperatively on a wide range of issues.
Chicago is viewed as a leader in aviation and sustainable airport initiatives. A number of international and U.S. cities and airports have requested to meet with Chicago to learn how the CDA is improving and enhancing the operations of our airports.
