MELBOURNE AIRPORT AUTHORITY POLICE DEPARTMENT ESTABLISHES FIRST K9 PROGRAM
MELBOURNE, Fla. (July 15, 2026) – The Melbourne Airport Authority Police Department (MAPD) has two new members joining the team, and they have four legs. Their names are Zip and Yellow.
Following the successful completion of an intensive three-month training program, Officer Jordan Hallman and K9 Zip, along with Officer Christina Lane and K9 Yellow, have returned to Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB), establishing the department's first K9 program and marking a significant milestone for MAPD. The new K9 program will be led by Sergeant Jacki Hughes.
The K9 teams will continue training and familiarization at MLB while providing a highly visible law enforcement presence that helps support the safety and security of airport employees, tenants, passengers, and airport operations. The program is the result of years of collaboration between MAPD and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and represents another investment in the airport's ongoing commitment to public safety.
"This program has been years in the making, and I'm incredibly proud of the dedication our officers demonstrated throughout the training process," said Chief Renee Purden, ACE, Chief of Police for the Melbourne Airport Authority Police Department. "Officers Hallman and Lane worked tirelessly alongside their K9 partners, and we're excited to welcome these teams home as they begin serving our airport community. Their professionalism and commitment throughout this process have been outstanding."
"I am excited and honored to be working as a K9 handler for the airport," said Officer Jordan Hallman. "Zip and I formed a strong bond during training, and we're proud to bring our new skills back to the police department as we begin serving the airport community."
"It is a tremendous honor to be one of the first two K9 handlers at MAPD," said Officer Christina Lane. "The training was an incredible experience, and I'm proud of everything Yellow and I accomplished together as a team. I'm looking forward to coming to work every day with my K9 partner and grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community we serve."
Melbourne Orlando International Airport Executive Director Greg Donovan, A.A.E., said the new K9 program reflects the airport's continued commitment to safety.
"As Melbourne Orlando International Airport continues to grow, so does our responsibility to provide a safe and secure environment for everyone who works, travels, and conducts business here," Donovan said. "This new K9 program is another investment in our people, our partnerships, and our commitment to keeping MLB safe and secure."
The department's accomplishments didn't end there. During the TSA training program, Officer Jordan Hallman received the Top Dog Handler award for his dedication throughout the course, his tireless work alongside K9 Zip, and the leadership and professionalism he demonstrated among his classmates.
The new K9 program comes as Melbourne Orlando International Airport continues to grow as the Space Coast's aviation and aerospace hub. Home to a thriving campus of aerospace, defense, technology, and manufacturing organizations and approximately 20,000 daily employees, MLB continues to invest in the people, partnerships, and resources that support a safe and secure airport environment.
For more information about Melbourne Orlando International Airport, visit FlyMLB.com.
About Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB)
Melbourne Orlando International Airport (MLB) is the Space Coast's aviation and aerospace hub and the region's gateway for commercial air service. With nonstop service to major airline hubs and popular leisure destinations, seasonal international visitor service, and a thriving campus of aerospace, defense, technology, and manufacturing organizations, MLB serves as a key driver of regional economic activity. Through its commitment to Premium Convenience Unlocked, MLB delivers a travel experience defined by easy access, close parking, shorter security lines, and personalized service.
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MLB Media Contact:
Melissa Naughton, C.M., ACE
mnaughton@mlbair.com