The National Association of State Aviation Officials (NASAO) has named Washington the “Most Innovative State” this year for developing an online pilot-registration program that funds search-and-rescue projects and maintains and preserves GA airports.

The program began last January to increase the number of pilots who are registered with the Washington state Department of Transportation (WSDOT). With the new registration process, pilots can use the aviation division’s Web site to pay fees and update personal information. The quick and efficient online transaction replaces three separate mailings and internal processing costs.

Since the implementation of online registration, revenues have increased. Additional revenues mean better airports and a solid air search-and-rescue program in the state, according to WSDOT. NASAO said the improved communication with Washington’s aviation community, the increase in revenues to support aviation programs and the overall convenience to staff and customers have made WSDOT’s aviation division online registration program a huge success.

The Most Innovative State Program Award was established in 1984 to recognize unique and service-oriented state aviation programs, projects and activities. Many of these programs have spread to other states, and in some cases they have been adopted by the federal government or the aviation community in general.