Widely recognized aviation leader, Clifton A. Moore, who helped transform a two-runway regional airport into Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), died on April 2 at age 80. Moore co-wrote the definitive book on airport management ``Airport Operations'' (John Wiley and Sons, New York, 1983) with Norman J. Ashford and Martin Stanton.

Born in Jamaica Plain, Mass., Moore was hired as a building superintendent at LAX in 1959. Named deputy general manager of the Department of Airports in 1966, Moore advanced to executive director in 1968, in charge of not only the day-to-day operations of LAX but those of the three other airports in the department's system, Van Nuys, Ontario International and Palmdale Regional. He retired from his post in 1993.

Nicknamed "Mr. Airport," Moore served two terms as president of the International Civil Airports Association and president of the Airport Operators Council International in 1976-77, the predecessor of Airports Council International, the Geneva, Switzerland-headquartered organization representing the world's airports. He also served on the International Air Transport Association (IATA) Task Force on Airport and Airspace Congestion, and was former chairman of the Airport Associations Coordinating Council, a policy-making body for international airport affairs.

In addition, Moore served on numerous Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) task forces. In January 1975, he was awarded the FAA's Award for Extraordinary Service, the highest honor bestowed to men and women outside the federal agency, for his pioneering work in managing and mitigating airport noise between Los Angeles' airport facilities and their neighboring communities. He also received a special commendation from the FAA in 1985 for his contributions to international air transport.

Moore is survived by his wartime bride, Betty of Lancaster; a son, Steven of Fountain Valley; two daughters, Kerry of Oakhurst and Dale of Santa Monica; and six grandchildren.