"I'm both chuffed and humbled with the award. I have worked hard for regional airports and the effort is bearing fruit. But more importantly is the plight of regional airports and the level of support we get from the big boys - Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch international airports.
It's really tough for smaller regional airports like ours, as we have to comply with the same costly regulations as the bigger airports with only a fraction of the resources.
"A big part of the association's role is the promotion of the idea of all of these individually-owned, and often under-resourced, airports forming a vital communications and economic network as a way of tackling some of these issues."
Mayor Annette Main congratulated Mr MacGibbon on his achievement.
"We have an excellent airport facility here in Whanganui, made even better through our partnership with Air Chathams. This is evident in the many positive comments that I receive from visitors who pass through out airport's doors. Much of this is a result of Allan's hard work. His Personality of the Year Award is both fitting and well deserved."
Mr MacGibbon has been on the board of the Airport Association since its formation in 2008.
He will be retiring from his position as Whanganui Airport Manager next year.