Aviation View | Volume 2, Issue 1

41 AVIATION VIEW VOLUME 2, ISSUE 1 construction project had been planned for two years and took place right in the middle of COVID. The pandemic hit in April and May of 2020, the project broke ground in June, and the runway was shut down for six months. “Coincidental timing?” Seaton questions with a smile. “Flights were already at an all-time low due to COVID restrictions, so we actually had minimal impact.” In addition to the runway project, itself, the airport brought in all new LED lighting, security lighting was enhanced and security cameras were upgraded. Also, the “rather poor” internet and telephone service was switched to high-speed fiber wireless – a substantial improvement. Looking to the future, Seaton shares his top goals: “Maintaining a safe and effective airport like we already have, supporting general aviation and Industry growth in the area and advancing aviation career opportunities for our youth. I would really like to see some type of educational program or school here for our residents and the surrounding area to support aviation as a career. From an airport manager’s standpoint, what I’ve struggled with in the past is to have the property ready for industry that would like to locate in the area. I work closely with our local ,West Tennessee, and the State Economic Development offices along with state schools, colleges and universities to promote what we have available in Hardin County.” As many say, “An airport is only one part of the equation for development and opportunities,” but the Savannah-Hardin County Airport is primed for whatever comes their way. From relaxing river and lake views to historic sites PLAN YOUR VISIT TODAY TourHardinCounty.org SAVANNAH-HARDIN COUNTY A I RPORT (SNH)