The year 2003 marks several major milestones in the history of aviation: The centennial of the Wright Brothers' first flight and the 75th anniversary of Los Angeles' status as a major aviation center with the establishment of the City's first commercial airport at what is now known as LAX and the opening of Van Nuys Airport.

I join all Angelenos in looking back over Los Angeles World Airports' 75 distinguished years of development and commemorate the long and rich history of aviation in Los Angeles. With its tradition of excellence, professionalism and innovation, Los Angeles World Airports will continue to be a world leader in bringing forward new ideas, directions and solutions to our aviation needs.

For 75 years, LAX has been the gateway to Los Angeles-a great city noted for its leadership in business and entertainment, diversity and cultural richness and vast beauty. Conversely, the airport provides a doorway to the world for Los Angeles' nearly four million residents, offering them the opportunity to travel to countless exotic destinations and business centers.

Building on the success of LAX, Los Angeles World Airports has solidified its commitment to the region's residents and visitors for convenient and safe travel options by expanding services and resources at its other local airports. The region's third busiest airport, Ontario International, completed major renovations and an expansion in 1998 and now provides an additional gateway that benefits both markets geographically and economically while at the same time alleviates air traffic congestion at LAX.

LAX is also a major international airport providing service to destinations on five continents, directly connecting the people of Los Angeles with the people of more than 22 countries around the world. It is a key factor in our successful participation in today's globalized economy and it is essential to our future economic growth. I am very proud of the fact that every year over 56 million travelers - nearly 15 million of them from more than 100 nations - pass through LAX to enjoy the beauty and vibrant economy of California and the nation.

Of late, our nation's airports have taken on an important role in protecting our borders and ensuring the safety of not only Americans, but also the many visitors who come from abroad. Los Angeles World Airports has taken a leadership role in the arena of homeland and aviation security. It is my goal to make LAX the most secure airport in the United States-our record shows that we are right on track. Our airports faced many challenges in the last two years in preparing to meet tough, new security requirements. They have done so successfully, while at the same time being sensitive to passenger concerns-a hallmark of airport service for the last 75 years.

As we celebrate this diamond anniversary, I offer my sincerest congratulations and thanks to the staff of Los Angeles World Airports, the Board of Airport Commissioners and the men and women who daily provide excellent service. A great city needs and deserves great airports. Los Angeles International truly is a world-class airport, and it is this world-class service that draws travelers and shippers through its doors each and every day-for 75 years and counting.