SAINT FRANCIS UNIVERSITY AVIATION PROGRAMS BUILDING AVIATION’S NEXT GENERATION JUNE 2025 VOL 05 BUSINESS VIEW AVIATION ALSO IN THIS ISSUE BERT MOONEY AIRPORT • JACKSON REGIONAL AIRPORT
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Karen Surca Editor in Chief, Business View Publications Have you ever wondered when you look up in the sky on a sunny day just how many airplanes are in the air above? I know that I have, and it stuns me when I think of where the multitude of planes are heading around the world at any given time, flying past our orbit and landing sometimes half way around the world. I, like you, am a verified aviation enthusiast. Anything pertaining to airports, developments in the aviation industry, travel and the latest technology grabs my attention and keeps it there. It is for this reason that I always look forward to reaching out to you with our Aviation View quarterly publication and providing a first-class look into how airports throughout North America are gearing up to meet aviation needs. With global events proving to be somewhat unpredictable at the moment, one thing remains consistent- planes will keep flying, passengers will get to where they are going and aviation continues to hit new thresholds that leave open an exciting future ahead. With aviation demands increasing, technology burgeoning and passenger numbers rising, airport directors have had to ramp up their efforts to ensure that passengers and flight crews are met with a welcoming and efficient landing every time. This has propelled airport officials to look into the best ways to provide the best amenities and services upon arrival. We had the opportunity to profile a number of leading regional airports for our June issue of Aviation View. Each of the airports are taking off with bold initiatives, master plans that tackle infrastructure needs and welcoming general aviation and commercial airline passengers with warm welcome every time. Business View Aviation sat down with Bert Mooney Airport, Indianapolis Executive Airport, Jackson Regional Airport, Knox County Regional Airport, Mineral Wells Regional Airport, Northeast Philadelphia Airport as well as Saint Francis University Aviation. For all of these airports we learned what is needed to keep flying seamlessly through the third quarter of 2025 and beyond. With every issue of Business View Aviation my hope is that you gain a little more perspective into what it takes to keep each of our airports across the continent ahead of the curve while always putting their passengers and the flying public first. Email for all inquiries: info@businessviewmagazine.com 2422 Palm Ridge Road, Suite 820 Sanibel FL, 33957 239.220.5554 CONTACT US Editor in Chief Karen Surca Director of Aviation & Research Paul Payne Research & Sales Director Thomas Hiley Contributing Writers Brett Anningson Andrew Macfarlane Al Krulick Vice President of Production Jared Ali Digital Strategist Jon Bartlow Art Director Renée Yearwood COO Matthew Mitchell CGO Alexander Wynne-Jones Executive Publisher / CEO Marcus VandenBrink EDITOR’S NOTES Dear Readers, WWW.BUSINESSVIEWMAGAZINE.COM 2 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02 15 BERT MOONEY AIRPORT Everything Aviation on a ‘Smaller Scale’ 25 INDIANAPOLIS EXECUTIVE AIRPORT The Economic Engine of the Region 35 JACKSON REGIONAL AIRPORT A Regional Gateway on the Rise 45 KNOX COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT Flying a Sustainable Path Forward COVER SAINT FRANCIS UNIVERSITY AVIATION PROGRAMS 2 EDITOR’S NOTES 5 OPENING LINES AVIATION VIEW BERT MOONEY AIRPORT 15 3 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
59 MINERAL WELLS REGIONAL AIRPORT Taking Off with Growth on the Horizon 69 NORTHEAST PHILADELPHIA AIRPORT Ambitious Plans to Support Its $500 Million Dollar Economic Impact The articles in this publication are for information purposes only. Business View Publishing assumes no liability or responsibility for any inaccurate, delayed, or incomplete information, nor for any actions taken in reliance thereon. The information contained about each individual or organization has been provided by such individual or organization without verification by us. The opinion expressed in each article is that of its author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of Business View Publishing. SAINT FRANCIS UNIVERSITY AVIATION PROGRAMS 79 79 SAINT FRANCIS UNIVERSITY AVIATION PROGRAMS Building Aviation’s Next Generation
TRUST AND VERIFICATION ARE KEY FOR SAFE, EFFECTIVE A Source: NBAA.org, News Editor, First published July/ August 2025 issue Each team member of a business aviation maintenance operation is tasked with working as an effective part of a cohesive union. But how can managers ensure that everyone pulls in the same direction, and at the same rate? Clearly it begins with trust. But experts point out that marrying trust with verification is vital for success. LAYING A FOUNDATION FOR TRUST The concept of trust, but verify, is rooted in an old Russian proverb, “Doveryai, No Proveryai,” and was famously invoked by former President Ronald Reagan during the Cold War. Its use in aviation calls for understanding the task, proceeding with caution and, ideally, no one gets hurt. Trust rests at the heart of aviation. In fact, the FAA goes to great lengths to instill passenger confidence and is steadfast in that mission. The agency calls this baseline its Compliance Program. “An open and transparent exchange of information requires mutual cooperation and trust that can be challenging to achieve in a traditional, enforcement-focused regulatory model,” the agency says on its website. Fern Campos, Disney’s aviation director of maintenance, operates under a similar philosophy, with one important distinction. Given the critical nature of aircraft maintenance in overall operations, his approach is: doubt, verify and then trust – meaning objective verification must always precede trust. This principle is deeply embedded in the company’s quality management system, where quality assurance (QA) focuses on establishing robust processes to prevent errors, and quality control (QC) ensures that completed maintenance meets required specifications. Through regular audits, QA evaluates the effectiveness of QC and ensures compliance with both regulatory and internal standards. “We manage what we can control, and mitigate what we cannot.” Bill Riter Aviation Department Manager, Rich Products Corp BEGIN WITH A STRATEGIC PLAN Aviation Department Manager Bill Riter of Rich Products Corp. recommends beginning each large maintenance action with a strategic plan. For example, when a C-Check (extensive inspection of an aircraft’s individual systems and components) is on the horizon, the team takes an initial overall look at the project scope and Opening Lines 5 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
AMT OPERATIONS then begins breaking down tasks based on the strengths of the team members’ It is important to leverage each person’s experience and align it with the maintenance action needed. The message is clear: “We manage what we can control, and mitigate what we cannot,” said Riter. Failures rarely occur with one disconnect.They’re usually caused by a series of mistakes. “In maintenance, we work to remove all holes from the Swiss cheese,” said business aircraft maintenance technician (AMT) Sam Orjoux, referring to Professor James Reason’s widely known “Swiss Cheese” model of accident causation. The concept of trust and verification, Orjoux said, goes beyond required inspection items policies that are included in technical publications. Most times, this begins with simple communication. Typically, an operator’s director of maintenance sees the big picture and provides the resources needed to accomplish the task. If instructions are unclear or there are any questions, the team will stop and talk it out. BE ACCOUNTABLE To ensure accountability, take steps to empower team members to stay vigilant. This comes in the form of awareness campaigns, training and tools to assist. Campos recommends that each employee has a safety management system (SMS) app on their phone. Doing that puts resources behind the idea that “if you see something, say something,” and shows that the organization is also accountable. That accountability starts from within, said Orjoux. Sometimes it’s the voice in your head that says, “Did I verify the settings on this torque wrench?” Other questions that are crucial to pay attention to include: “Is there complete understanding of the task at hand? What is the comfort level?” The verification comes through asking questions and doing a deeper dive into the actions needed. Aircraft maintenance is rooted in checks and balances. Expectations must be set early and checked as you go, said Riter. If something doesn’t feel right, have the fortitude to hit pause and talk through it. Some organizations call this concept a safety standdown. DATA-DRIVEN DECISIONS Thanks to huge leaps in technological innovation, aviation maintenance data has never been more available and important than it is now. With each innovation, AMTs are required to expand their skills and venture into uncharted territory. It is crucial for all team members to pay attention and trust the received part is correct – but to verify it anyway. While most aviation programs are heavily regulated, they are still dependent on individuals doing the right thing, Campos said. One example is ordering spare parts from an OEM.Although the part still needs review, under Part 91, there is no standardization or hard gates that the part must pass through. A bleed valve could pass from the shipping container to the aircraft without so much as a certificate check. But a thorough check of the bleed valve’s data plate and paperwork could avert big trouble down the line. BE PROFESSIONAL For Riter, it’s all about professionalism. Professionalism goes beyond the book, addresses concerns at the cause, and is not afraid to toss out the speed brakes to slow things down. “We represent not only ourselves, but our company as well,” Riter said. “The industry and each team member knows their responsibilities … If you fail, fail forward- learn from your mistake and grow from the lessons learned.” 6 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
Source: NBAA.org, News Editor, First published July 08, 2025 General aviation pilots, including business aircraft operators, are helping to rush critically needed supplies to those affected by the catastrophic flooding along the Guadalupe River in Texas Hill Country. Operation Airdrop, a Texas-based nonprofit organization founded in 2017, has established bases at the Commemorative Air Force Museum at Burnet Municipal Airport (BMQ) northeast of Kerrville,TX, and the Million Air FBO at Addison Airport (ADS) near Dallas. Pilots and local residents may drop off supplies at either location.All donations – ranging from chainsaws and shovels to clear debris, to mops, brooms, cleaning supplies and N95 masks – are consolidated at BMQ, then BUSINESS AVIATION SNAPS INTO ACTION TO HELP VICTIMS OF DISASTROUS TEXAS FLOODING transported via ground vehicles to the communities of Kerrville, Hunt and other surrounding areas most affected by flooding. Tara Winter, communications director for Operation Airdrop, said more than 20 aircraft ranging from singleengine Cessnas to a Beechcraft King Air had dropped off supplies at both locations through Monday afternoon. “Our volunteer pilots started contacting the organization immediately after the magnitude of damage became known,” she said. “Our usual response involves planes arriving empty to take supplies to the affected area. However, with Interstate 10 and other roadways in the affected area largely clear, this is kind of opposite of that.” NBAA has been in contact with local fire and police OPENING LINES 7 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
departments, as well as officials at Kerrville Municipal Airport (ERV). “Their priority is keeping local airspace open for ongoing search and rescue operations,” said Steve Hadley, NBAA’s regional programs director.“That makes ground-based operations vital at this time. Fortunately, the ability to quickly adapt to the specific mission at hand is a hallmark of this industry, and business aviation operators can still play an important part of this relief effort.” With more rain in the forecast for the area throughout the week, Operation Airdrop expects to remain active as needed. “We’re grateful to the aviation community that has come out to support us,” Winter said. “We anticipate a similar response Tuesday and will continue monitoring the situation. “This hits very close to home for our group,” she added. “This isn’t a typical deployment for us, but so far it appears to be very successful.” Operation Airdrop is part of NBAA’s Humanitarian Emergency Response Operator (HERO) Database, a list of individuals and organizations in the business aviation community who are part of disaster-response mobilization efforts. In the aftermath of major crises, basic information from the database is provided to organizations coordinating relief efforts. 8 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
Source: NBAA.org, News Editor, First published July 03, 2025 At a recent Industry Day organized by the DOT and FAA on the heels of DOT Secretary Sean Duffy’s rollout of a plan to transform the nation’s air traffic control (ATC) system, the agencies have shared an accelerated timeline for the overhaul, which anticipates full implementation in three to four years. In accordance with the timeline, the FAA recently published its draft Request for Solutions (RFS), outlining guidance for proposals from offerors presenting system modernization solutions. Although a 30-day comment period on the RFS was anticipated, proposals are now due by 4 p.m. EDT on Friday, July 25. The FAA also requested feedback on what acquisition policies it should tailor or waive to achieve a brandnew air traffic control system in three to four years, and input on alternative funding arrangements, including public/private partnerships. “NBAA commends the DOT and FAA for recognizing the urgent need for swift action on ATC-transformation with an accelerated set of milestones,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. “Prospective vendors and others with experience in modernizing ATC systems should provide feedback before the July 25 deadline and be prepared to submit proposals on an expedited timeframe.” The FAA expects to award a contract for the new ATC system integrator and solution by Sept. 30. FAA ACCELERATES REQUEST FOR SOLUTIONS FOR NEW ATC SYSTEM, DEADLINE NOW JULY 25 OPENING LINES 9 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
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Source: NBAA.org, Dan Hubbard, First Published, July 03, 2025 The National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) welcomed today’s final vote in the House of Representatives of a bill with multiple NBAAsupported initiatives to promote the growth, safety and sustainability of the U.S. aviation industry. The wide-ranging budget reconciliation measure was initially passed in the House on May 22. The Senate passed its revised version on July 1, sending the bill back to the House for today’s vote. The bill now heads to the president’s desk, and he is expected to sign the legislation into law. The final legislation preserves $12.52 billion to fund replacement of aging air traffic control (ATC) facilities, systems and infrastructure and to bolster controller staffing and training. Announced by House leaders in April, the ATC funding provision has the support of NBAA and more than 50 other aviation stakeholders comprising the Modern Skies Coalition of aviation associations, trade unions, manufacturers and others. “We thank congressional leaders for preserving this vital ATC-transformation measure in the final budget-reconciliation bill, which provides a critical downpayment on investments in new technologies, facilities, the controller workforce and other priorities,” said NBAA President and CEO Ed Bolen. The legislation also includes a permanent reinstatement of full and immediate expensing on purchases of factory-new and preowned aircraft. The current expensing schedule, most recently authorized in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, is phasing out and set to expire in 2027. Immediate expensing has proven effective for incentivizing aircraft purchase, which in turn helps companies obtain a competitive asset and supports American manufacturing jobs. In the U.S., business NBAA WELCOMES FINAL CONGRESSIONAL PASSAGE OF AVIATION PRIORITIES IN BUDGET BILL aviation supports 1.3 million high-skill, high-paying manufacturing and service jobs and accounts for $340 billion in annual economic activity. The final legislation also maintains a key provision supporting business aviation’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 – an additional OPENING LINES 11 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
two-year extension of the Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit incentivizing production of sustainable aviation fuel to 2031, albeit with a reduction in the credit’s value, which could pose challenges for incentivizing enough production to meet demand. “This bill enacts many important initiatives to ensure America’s continued leadership in aviation,” Bolen said.“The business aviation community looks forward to working with Congress and government agency leaders to ensure its full implementation.” 12 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
Aviation View BERT MOONEY AIRPORT EVERYTHING AVIATION ON A ‘SMALLER SCALE’ INDIANAPOLIS EXECUTIVE AIRPORT THE ECONOMIC ENGINE OF THE REGION SAINT FRANCIS UNIVERSITY AVIATION PROGRAMS BUILDING AVIATION’S NEXT GENERATION KNOX COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT FLYING A SUSTAINABLE PATH FORWARD JACKSON REGIONAL AIRPORT A REGIONAL GATEWAY ON THE RISE NORTHEAST PHILADELPHIA AIRPORT AMBITIOUS PLANS TO SUPPORT ITS $500 MILLION DOLLAR ECONOMIC IMPACT MINERAL WELLS REGIONAL AIRPORT TAKING OFF WITH GROWTH ON THE HORIZON 13 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
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EVERYTHING AV ‘SMALLER SCAL BERT MOONEY AIRPORT AT A GLANCE BERT MOONEY AIRPORT WHAT: A commercial and GA airport that is growing in aviation numbers and providing the perfect commercial and tourist gateway to a beautiful region WHERE: J ust outside of Butte in Southwest Montana, USA WEBSITE: www.butteairport.com 15 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
VIATION ON A LE’ Boasting a runway that is just under 10,000 feet in length, Bert Mooney Airport which projects a dynamic and friendly passenger experience, can accommodate every type of aircraft from a C5 Galaxy down to the smallest private aircraft. Offering the perfect place to land for a multitude of aviation needs, this airport has the amenities in place to provide for a warm welcome and a seamless arrival for those passing through its terminal doors. THIS AVIATION GEM IS PROVING TO BE THE ‘LITTLE AIRPORT THAT COULD’ 16 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
“We are a small commercial airport with commercial service from United Airlines and Delta Airlines through an EAS agreement with Sky West Airlines to provide that service,” begins Rick Ryan, Deputy Director with Bert Mooney Airport. Situated in an area that is synonymous around the world with the splendor of the Rockies and a landscape that is tailor-made for exploring, Bert Mooney Airport has the logistical advantage of being in the center of it all. In a region that is both a tourist haven and a logistical hub for business travelers, the airport provides the perfect gateway to a thriving destination. Bert Mooney Airport provides two daily flights from its two domestic carriers, United Airlines and Delta Airlines.As such, the airport is a Part 139 airport with a considerable amount of leasable land available for hangar development. “We also have a daily service from Alpine Air that does FedEx and UPS flights,” Ryan adds.“This along with considerable corporate jet traffic coming up with business travelers.Vacation travelers also come down because we have a couple of high-end resorts around Butte that they fly into.” TRAINING THE NEXT GENERATION Added to the mix, the airport boasts a flight school through its successful Fixed Base Operator (FBO), Butte Aviation. “The FBO has two small Cessnas that are up with students daily, and they have an avionics facility here at the airport,” Ryan relays. “I know a couple of kids that got their private pilot’s license who are now in training for commercial airlines,” he highlights when describing the advantages of providing pilot training on the airport grounds. Aware, along with his colleagues, of the ongoing workforce shortage that is proving to be a challenge for the aviation industry, Ryan points to other initiatives the airport has undertaken to help encourage a new batch of aviation enthusiasts. 17 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02 BERT MOONEY AIRPORT
“We try to do as much as we can on the airport side,” Ryan states, “like attending the Montana Aviation Conference recently. Butte Aviation was in attendance and Bert Mooney Airport is supporting the FBO’s efforts.” “We are in the design phase of building a hangar that we will lease to them for more space for their avionics maintenance facility. They are growing and hiring a bunch of mechanics. Their business is expanding and we are going to expand here at the airport to help them out with a facility,” Ryan highlights. Ryan also points to the airport’s willingness to expose the youngest members of the community to the world of aviation. “Every so often we will have preschool and daycares come out and we take them on a tour of the airport.” “We will show them snow removal equipment, our ARF capabilities, all those types of things,” Ryan enthuses. Ryan also mentions that the area’s high school is aware of the significance of the airport’s operation through Butte Aviation which has continued relationships with some local trades, including aviation mechanics. “It is a good working relationship.” TOURISM AND THE AIRPORT’S ECONOMIC ENGINE “We are centrally located right between the two big national parks in Montana; Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park. So we have a lot of people that come through our area, either by vehicle or by aircraft and this has led to an increase in the number of boardings and deployments,” Ryan describes. When asked about tourism and the airport’s role, Ryan confidently states that tourism remains the single most lucrative business sector and the airport provides the perfect gateway for the area. “The tourist attractions throughout our area are just so diverse,” Ryan notes.“We have Blue Ribbon trout fishing 15 minutes from Butte, and we also have the 18 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
Continental Divide Trial, mountain biking, horseback riding, and a host of Airbnbs all over southwest Montana.” Tourists also flock to two well-known resorts in the area, Rock Creek Cattle Company and the Ranch at Rock Creek.“People, especially on the private charter side, are flying in to spend time at those resorts.” “Tourism has a huge impact on southwest Montana and the airport tries to do as much as we can to help promote that.” Beyond the tourist draw, the economic strength of the airport itself is reflected in its numbers. “This airport brings into the local economy close to $40 million per year, which ranges from business travelers to tourists, you name it,” Ryan summarizes. “We are a huge economic driver for the local economy.” “We support Montana Tech through the University of Montana system which is a top-notch engineering school and we support all of their efforts and travel whether it be sports teams or mining competitions that they put on. Ryan adds that the Montana Connections Business Park is also a significant industrial area currently being developed west of the town and supports various businesses, adding to the local economy. “We have all sorts of industrial growth and we [the airport] support and help as best we can.” Ryan goes on to indicate that the area is expecting even more growth. “The community is also trying to attract another airline through a minimum revenue guarantee. We are working on that and will try to get a third airline to start service in Butte which we are excited about and keeping our fingers crossed.” LANDING INFRASTRUCTURE UPGRADES Aside from welcoming increasing numbers of passengers through the terminal doors, the airport is busy at work on several key infrastructure upgrades as part of its overall master overlay plan. 19 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02 BERT MOONEY AIRPORT
WE ARE THE PLACE TO ELEVATE YOUR BUSINESS Gateway to the West Located at the interchange of I-90 and I15, junction of two major railroads, and a foreign trade zone, Butte's transportation infrastructure allows you to connect with the world. Amazing Infrastructure With plentiful industrial water, natural gas, three-phase electrical power, high-speed fiber, and shovel-ready parcels, Butte is ready to help you thrive. Business-Friendly Butte Montana Connections Industrial Park is able to provide and locate generous tax incentives for businesses looking to relocate or start their business in Butte. Highly Skilled Workforce Butte is home to a high skilled and driven workforce. With two technical and engineering colleges, Butte can produce the workforce you need for success. DISCOVER WHY BUTTE IS RIGHT FOR YOU. CONNECT WITH OUR EXPERTS TODAY! 406-490-5768 montanaconnectionspark.com krosa@bsb.mt.gov Business Development Park 20 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
“My last project that just was completed in January was a new passenger boarding bridge which was phase two of that project,” Ryan states.“We redid our commercial ramp space in phase one.” Ryan relays that the airport has recently invested its time and resources in hangar development on the south side of the airport, and is also working on some new snow removal equipment, along with putting in new security gates and security systems required by the TSA. “Then we have a runway rehab project that will be scheduled for next year which will rehab all of our runways and taxiways which is our next big capital outlay project for the next two years,” Ryan projects. LOOKING DOWN THE RUNWAY When asked what the future holds for Bert Mooney Airport, Ryan reflects before answering. “I think our number one priority is trying to attract additional airlines.” 21 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02 BERT MOONEY AIRPORT
He also adds that addressing infrastructure projects tops the list moving forward. “Pavement maintenance is a huge thing for airports. That is one of our high priorities to get our main runway maintenance completed and our taxiways.” When looking down the runway, he directs attention towards the most rewarding aspect of the job that he clearly loves. “It is helping out the community; providing a portal to get people into Butte whether they are developing a business, visiting southwest Montana, or coming to see family.” “I enjoy that part of it,” he concludes. 22 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
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PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Butte-Silver Bow www.montanaconnectionspark.com The City-County of Butte-Silver Bow, Montana, is a unique consolidated government known for its rich mining history. Once the “Richest Hill on Earth,” Butte thrived on copper production. Today, it blends historic charm with modern industry, outdoor recreation, and a vibrant cultural scene, preserving its heritage while fostering economic growth. 24 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
THE ECONOM ENGINE OF T INDIANAPOLIS EXECUTIVE AIRPORT AT A GLANCE INDIANAPOLIS EXECUTIVE AIRPORT WHAT: L eading commercial and GA airport focused on becoming an international arrivals and departures destination and business catalyst for the region WHERE: I ndianapolis, Indiana WEBSITE: www.indyexec.com 25 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
MIC THE REGION Flying high through 2025 with the runway clear for further aviation growth to take off, Indianapolis Executive Airport is enjoying its position as an aviation hub. This dynamic airport has also pivoted to become a burgeoning epicenter for increased international flights to take off from its impressive 7,000-foot extended runway. With its eye firmly on what is needed to be done AN AIRPORT THAT FUELS GROWTH AND EXTENDS ITS RUNWAY TO OPEN UP INTERNATIONAL OPTIONS 26 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
to encourage its global reach while ensuring a seamless, friendly, and welcoming passenger experience, Indianapolis Executive Airport is also an airport that is well-positioned to set itself apart from its aviation competitors. Samuel Sachs, Indianapolis Executive Airport Director, describes the airport as “a general aviation airport, specifically a national level general aviation airport which is very busy operationally.” “We definitely have a large focus on business and corporate aviation which is our niche. We do somewhere around 115 operations a day at the airport, 30 of those are our business aviation operations.” Sachs points out that Indianapolis Executive Airport also carries out a good amount of piston operations, flight school training, and private general aviation business. The key however to the airport’s success over the last few years is its business aviation readiness and to soon have the capacity to become a full-scale international arrivals and departure airport. LANDING BUSINESS GROWTH IN THE REGION “Business aviation has been growing fast here and right now we are number two in the state of Indiana in that category,” Sachs relays. Drawing the link between the airport’s expertise in catering to business travelers and the region’s emerging status as a business destination, Sach points out that the business traffic landing at the busy airport is critical to the region’s economic growth. “We are owned and operated by Hamilton County. The county sees the airport as an economic engine and economic driver for the region.” “So much of our traffic is also transient traffic; businesses coming in from out of state that are doing business in the Indianapolis region that utilize our airport as a launching ground for doing their business. 27 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02 INDIANAPOLIS EXECUTIVE AIRPORT
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Illustrating the airport’s business aviation strength, Sachs points to the north side of the city of Indianapolis where there has been a spike in residential and industrial growth spawning many new developments. “Along the Interstate 65 which is called the LEAP district, similar to a tech alley, you see a lot of chip makers and manufacturers. Eli Lilly is building a large facility there.” “Then to the east of the airport we have a lot of growth and development in Hamilton County which is considered one of the fastest-growing counties in the country,” Sachs adds. As Sachs illustrates, the airport serves as a gateway where flights coming in mesh with the business expansion seen throughout the county. “We are definitely a product of our location here. We are just in such a perfect little spot to capture all of that and it all converges here at the airport,” Sachs expands. EXTENDING THE RUNWAY TO PAVE THE WAY INTERNATIONALLY With so much potential in the region to expand within different key sectors, and the airport serving as the spoke in the transit wheel to make it happen, Sachs admits that Indianapolis Executive Airport has worked hard over the last little while to ensure its services make the grade. “We have been playing catch up and trying to grow to meet the demand. We extended our runway in 2023 from 5500 feet to 7000 feet. This has been great for us. “The runway extension has allowed us a lot more fuel sales for us internally as we see larger aircraft; Gulfstream and Global Express size general aviation aircraft,” Sachs explains. Now that the airport can boast a 7,000-foot runway, flights can now fly further afield.The airport has seen a distinct increase in the number of flights taking off for international destinations including Europe. 30 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
“Our international departures out of the airport have gone up tremendously. Now we do about 150 international flights out of the airport every year which puts us in the number three spot in Indiana.” “It’s our next frontier,” he states. So much so that Sachs has explored the potential to grow its international services to include possessing the capacity to welcome international flights landing at the airport as well. “It has been a hot topic over the last year or so in terms of how best to capture international travel. We know that we have international flights already, but we can not bring in arrivals because we don’t have a customs facility yet. We do have, however, the departures to meet that demand,” Sachs outlines. The airport is now, Sachs offers, going through the process of establishing a customs facility on its grounds with construction on the building expected to begin this summer. Sachs predicts the construction to be completed by the following summer, and at that point, he will set his sights on working closely with US Customs and Border Protection to staff the facility on a full-time basis. “We see it [international arrivals and departures with US Customs operations at the airport] as a way of attracting even more business.” “We have a new hangar that is going to be under construction here in just a few months and part of that hangar we are actually building,” Sachs continues. “The annex onto that hangar is intended to be the customs facility. Customs have already had site visits to the airport, and we are in close communication with them because they know the numbers.” AIRPORT BUSINESS GROWTH It isn’t just the county and areas throughout Indianapolis that are seeing business booming, 31 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02 INDIANAPOLIS EXECUTIVE AIRPORT
Sachs draws attention to the business potential for aviation and non-aviation business on the airport grounds. With revenue up and impressive fuel sales, Sachs has turned his attention to attracting businesses to the airport. “We have a large corporate partner, Beck’s Hybrid Seeds and they have soon to be two large hangars here at the airport but we still have a decent amount of land that can be developed for corporate aviation.” “The airport has a corporate taxiway which is an area off the west side of the airport with the intention of bringing in corporate partners. We also have three different plots of land around the taxiway that could be developed for an interested party. Sachs notes that he has the land available and is currently in conversations with several companies, one of which has a right of first refusal for one of the plots of land. “We are looking for any kind of aviation-related business and don’t pigeonhole ourselves. We have even had conversations with aircraft manufacturing companies.” FLYING AHEAD With everything that is taking place at an impressive speed at Indianapolis Executive Airport, Sachs has not neglected to devote time to help with workforce challenges within the industry. He points to regular school tours of airport facilities to help generate youth interest in aviation, as well as the airport’s connections with leading aviation training programs and colleges in the area. “We have Purdue University down the road, which is the epicenter for aviation across the country, and we have Indiana State University and Western Michigan University just across state lines.” Beyond workforce development initiatives, Sach’s is looking forward to preparations for the proposed 32 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
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PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n City of Westfield www.westfield.in.gov custom facilities at the airport. He will also focus on ensuring the airport remains a catalyst for continued business growth. In addition, Sachs will focus energies on other infrastructure projects needed in and around the airport grounds. “We are lucky in Central Indiana to be an aviation hub of the world,” he concludes. 34 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
JACKSON REGIONAL AIRPORT A REGIONAL ON THE RISE AT A GLANCE JACKSON REGIONAL AIRPORT WHAT: A n award winning airport with big plans for the future WHERE: J ackson, Tennessee WEBSITE: w ww.flyjackson.com 35 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
L GATEWAY E Jackson Regional Airport is in the midst of a transformation. Located in West Tennessee, this formerly modest facility has recently emerged as an aviation leader, earning the distinction of Tennessee’s 2024 Airport of the Year.“We display the award proudly in our fixed based operation,” shares Executive Director, Steve Smith. TRANSFORMING INTO AN AVIATION LEADER WITH MORE TO TAKE OFF 36 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
“In years of doing this, I’ve been airport manager of the year, I’ve had board of the year, but airport of the year, we had to chase it. It was one that I’ve always thought we deserved here. We had a great year last year, and the Aeronautics Division in Tennessee thought that as well. So, they rewarded us with that great honor.” REBUILDING FROM THE GROUND UP The airport’s recent successes are the result of years of planning and execution. In 2023, Jackson Regional undertook a complete reconstruction of its primary runway, a challenging but necessary project. “Our runway surface had gotten down where we had areas that were less than 65 on the scale and aeronautics knew we needed to work on it, we knew we needed to work on it,” Smith acknowledges. “However, because of the economic boom that’s going on right now in West Tennessee, our business was so good that we really hated to close the airport for a year and fix anything.” Still, they forged ahead with the project, taking the runway 36 inches below the original surface and building it back up. “Not only do we have a great, beautiful, smooth runway, we have a runway with a new base that has a higher load factor than what we had before, and it’s going to help us with the larger airplanes,” he depicts. Despite the disruption to jet traffic, the project was crucial, especially with growing demand driven by Ford Motor Company’s BlueOval City, located just 40 miles away.“We began to work with them a couple of years ago, trying to work a deal to be their airport of choice in the area,” Smith explains.“There’s only one traffic light between us and BlueOval City, so it takes about 25 minutes to get there on Interstate 40. We’ve been able to sell that to Ford. Now it’s our job to try to hold up what we promised them we would do.” Along with the runway rebuild, the airport replaced edge lighting and airfield signs, resealed other runways, and taxiways, regraded the grounds, and reseeded airfield greenspace.“Now the entire airfield, and the Aerodrome surface all looks brand new, and it’s really pretty. It just looks like what it is, a very updated runway,” he touts. In addition, a BIL grant provided $1.2 million towards a complete rebuild of the control tower, updating everything from windows 37 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02 JACKSON REGIONAL AIRPORT
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A COMMITMENT TO SERVICE YOU CAN COUNT ON. Based in Jackson, Tennessee, between Memphis and Nashville, Jackson Energy Authority (JEA) serves over 50,000 businesses and residential customers. We’re one of the very few public utilities in the nation to offer all major utility services from one company– electricity, natural gas, propane, water, wastewater, cable TV, Internet and telephone. Recognized with the highest of honors for excellence, we distribute safe and reliable power and gas services. It’s a commitment that continues day or night, through storms, and cold or heat to fuel the comforts of everyday life as well as the large-scale commercial and industrial needs for economic growth in our community. Customers enjoy safe, great-tasting drinking water thanks to our 100% aquifer-based water supply and our dedication to water quality and safety, a commitment that recently earned perfect scores for the fourth consecutive time. Also, our fiber-to-the-home telecommunications venture put Jackson on the world’s map when it signed up its first customer in 2004. Today, our 100% fiber optic Gigabit Ethernet network includes bandwidth availability to 10 Gbps and beyond. As a customer-owned utility, we combine utilities and broadband services with a hometown feel to provide unmatched service our community can count on now and in the future. www.jaxenergy.com. 39 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02 JACKSON REGIONAL AIRPORT
and furniture, to paint and equipment. Another major milestone was the return of TSA security screening after a 15 year absence, opening the door for new opportunities.“That allowed us to start jet service from Jackson to Atlanta and Jackson to Chicago,” Smith details. “We’ve been without jet service since before 9/11, so to bring jet service back in a larger airplane, that really helped us last year to become airport of the year.” He notes that the flights, operated by Denver Air Connection using Embraer 145 regional jets, have performed above expectations since launching in December. REBRANDING AS A REGIONAL HUB Owned by both the city of Jackson and Madison County, the airport has been working diligently to align its image with its growing role in West Tennessee’s economic development. In early 2024, the airport formally changed its name from McKellarSipes Regional Airport to Jackson Regional Airport. “We reached out last year to 23 different counties and municipalities in the West Tennessee area and all of them are feeling the impact of the industrial growth that’s going on with BlueOval city,” Smith imparts. In addition, Jackson has seen investment from Georgia-Pacific, who have opened a Dixie Brand tableware manufacturing facility in the city. The community is also home to a Toyota plant and an automotive battery facility is currently under construction. “So, all of that had a lot to do with what we focused on last year, which was to upgrade the air service,” he asserts. To accommodate its growth, Jackson Regional Airport is currently in the design phase of a new passenger terminal, supported by a $1 million BIL grant. “We went to the state of Tennessee with everything that was going on and asked them if they would buy into our project, too,” Smith outlines. It was recently announced that Governor Bill Lee’s most recent budget includes an additional $10 million in funding for hangar infrastructure and 40 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
$4.5 million in low-interest loans to advance further development.“So, we’re looking at another big year as far as construction,” he says. Another upcoming project includes a 400 car parking lot, which will handle the capacity of the new terminal. TALENT SHORTAGES AND SUCCESSION CHALLENGES Staffing remains a concern for Jackson Regional Airport, and Smith himself has returned to his role as interim Executive Director, after retiring in January.“I haven’t missed a day of work since the day I retired,” he quips. With a succession plan that didn’t work out, the challenge has been finding someone with the experience and qualifications for the role. “We advertised at AAAE, we advertised at Indeed, and we advertised somewhere else, and we got 15 applications,” he reports.“Of those, two of them were qualified, but our board didn’t feel like either one had the qualifications to take over an airport that was running as fast as this one. So, we have started another search now, looking to find someone that 41 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02 JACKSON REGIONAL AIRPORT
might be trainable over the next six months to step into this position.” Fortunately, the airport has been able to retain most of its FBO linemen over the past three years. “We have worked really hard with retainage bonuses, extra time off, all of those things that you can do,” Smith conveys. “We have just recently taken our chief lineman and promoted him to assistant FBO manager and began to work him into the system as our next FBO manager.” STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS AND ECONOMIC GROWTH Jackson Regional Airport is actively pursuing partnerships that support its plans for growth, including a potential collaboration that would see a $1.8 million Cirrus Jet maintenance center on-site to support its jet service operations. The airport is also working with the Tennessee Valley Authority and the local chamber to market a 65-acre parcel adjacent to a Tennessee National Guard Unit. Smith relays,“We feel like it would be better suited for an 42 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
MRO of some type, and we’re currently working on what it’s going to take to market that.” On the hospitality front, the addition of a $58 million Wyndham hotel on the airport grounds is in the proposal stage. “We’re in the middle of an industrial park here, and there are no hotels on the west side of Jackson. This will be the first one, and we’re excited about that. Right now, it’s a really good time to be in the airport business in Jackson, Tennessee,” Smith highlights. All of these developments have helped to bring a surge in aviation activity.“We’re running a 300–400% increase. For 11 years, we were relegated to a Cessna Caravan going in and out of St Louis, in and out of Atlanta. And those were eight to nine passenger airplanes,” Smith recalls.“Now, people are beginning to say, ‘If I fly to Chicago, I’m going to be able to fly back to Jackson.’ That’s the hardest thing for small airlines, to make it known in the area that they can do that.” Fuel sales have also grown, with the airport reporting an increase from 300,000 gallons annually fifteen years ago, to a million gallons a year and growing. 43 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02 JACKSON REGIONAL AIRPORT
each. “That’s an additional 60 aircraft that we can add to our fold here and be able to take care of,” he continues. As he balances retirement with continued leadership, Smith observes,“My golf game is not progressing like I had originally thought it might, but the airport’s progressing better than anyone thought it would.” With all that Jackson Regional Airport has planned, that progress shows no signs of slowing. PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Jackson Energy Authority www.jaxenergy.com JEA serves over 50,000 customers in Jackson, Tennessee among its residential, commercial, and industrial customer bases. Founded to provide core utilities throughout the region and support customer demand, JEA has a history of excellence providing eight services – electricity, natural gas, propane, water, wastewater, cable TV, Internet, and telephone. A VISION FOR THE FUTURE Looking ahead, Smith is focused on supporting the success of Denver Air Connection and expanding hangar and infrastructure capacity. “We have the ability to move into the FAA funding, where we’re funded just like the major airports. It’s $1.2 million a year more than what we’re funded now,” he clarifies. “Getting that in place and making it work is actually job one. Job two is to build the infrastructure and to build the area where we can actually have some hangars.” This includes the construction of six additional T-hangars, which will hold 10 aircraft 44 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
KNOX COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT AT A GLANCE KNOX COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT WHAT: T he County Airport serving mid-Maine focused on sustainability and electrification in aviation WHERE: K nox County, Maine WEBSITE: www.knoxcountymaine.gov An airport that is known for providing a warm welcome while looking towards an ‘electrifying’ future FLYING A SUST PATH FORWAR 45 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
While there may be a host of active regional and county airports looking to grow their aviation business, very few can lay claim to piloting new aviation-related innovations and gearing their efforts toward sustainable flying methods. Knox County Regional Airport can take its place among these small few. A dynamic airport that is as friendly as it is beautifully located is actively piloting new LED lighting methods and installing TAINABLE RD 46 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02
electric charging stations as proof of its dedication to an eco-friendly aviation future. Nestled in an enviable area near Owls Maine, and close to Penobscot Bay, Knox County Regional Airport has its finger firmly on the pulse of the direction aviation is taking across the continent and is first in line to ensure that it makes the sustainable grade. Specifically,Airport Manager Jacob Johnson is looking for ways to increase the capacity to operate electric flights to help with routine mail or cargo service. He has ambitious plans just across the horizon to make his vision take shape. By committing to clearly outlined sustainable goals, Johnson has already programmed the GPS for the airport’s route ahead. INCREASING AIRPORT CAPABILITIES While working within a paradigm that shines the mirror on innovation, Johnson is also focused on catering to the flights that touch down and take off daily. He is also allocating resources to any needed upgrading and enhancing of the airport’s current facilities through a capital infrastructure lens. “We are a mix of general aviation and commercial service,” he begins. Pointing to the scenic area that surrounds the airport Johnson points out,“The airport is in a unique spot.” “We are partnered with Cape Air, a commercial service, and Cape Air flies direct flights to Boston.” Turning to Cape Air, the airport’s regional commercial service, Johnson outlines that the airline offers “six flights to and from Boston in peak season and this drops down to three in the winter months with a capacity to hold nine passengers for each flight,” Johnson details. “We also have Penobscot Island Air at our airport and they do a little bit of everything including scenic flights around the community.They also offer flights to and from the islands off the coast. Anything from basic transport to medical emergencies.” “They [Penobscot Island Air] do cargo, mail service, and other things like that,” he adds. 47 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 02 KNOX COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT
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