Definition
A state-level official, designated under the National Historic Preservation Act, responsible for identifying and protecting historic properties within a state. In aviation contexts, the SHPO is consulted during environmental and land-use reviews for airport projects that may affect historic sites, structures, or culturally significant areas.
Plain English
The person in each state whose job is to make sure airport construction or changes do not damage historic places. Airport planners must check with this official before building near anything of historic value.
Context Anchor
You may see SHPO in FAA airport planning, airport development, or environmental review material, rather than in normal cockpit use.
Why Pilots Care
Most pilots will never deal directly with a SHPO, but airport improvements, runway extensions, and new construction can be delayed or modified because of historic preservation requirements. Knowing the term helps when reading airport master plans or environmental assessments.
Example Sentence 1
Before the runway extension could begin, the airport sponsor coordinated with the SHPO to confirm no historic sites would be disturbed.
Example Sentence 2
The airport development plan was sent to the SHPO for review before construction could begin.