SOARING TO NEW HEIGHTS WITH THE PASSENGER IN MIND VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01 Also in this issue ROSWELL AIR CENTER • MEACHAM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT • MCALESTER REGIONAL AIRPORT CHIPPEWA COUNTY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
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Karen Surca Editor in Chief, Business View Publications Along with you, I am a huge aviation enthusiast. Anything pertaining to airports, developments in the aviation industry, travel and the latest technology grabs my attention and holds it. It is for this reason that I always look forward to reaching out to you with our Aviation View quarterly publication and providing a firstclass look into how airports throughout North America are gearing up to meet aviation needs. With every issue there are a multitude of exciting developments stemming from the hard work and dedication that airport professionals throw into their work every day. We bring you along for a front seat look into aviation initiatives that are ensuring airport success. 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 March issue of Aviation View. Each of the airports that we profiled prove to be on top of what is needed, and are busy looking into even more streamlined services moving forward and providing the perfect landing for passengers. Business View Aviation sat down with Big Sandy Regional Airport, Chippewa County International Airport, Meacham International Airport, McAlester Regional Airport, Norwalk-Huron County Airport and Roswell Air Center. For all of these airports we learned what is needed to keep flying seamlessly through 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 01
VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01 13 BIG SANDY REGIONAL AIRPORT ‘The Welcome Mat to Eastern Kentucky’ 23 CHIPPEWA COUNTY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Soaring to new heights with the passenger in mind COVER CHIPPEWA COUNTY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 2 EDITOR’S NOTES 5 OPENING LINES AVIATION VIEW CHIPPEWA COUNTY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT 23 3 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
33 MEACHAM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT A Century of Aviation Excellence 43 MCALESTER REGIONAL AIRPORT A Regional Airport Setting the Bar High 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. NORWALK-HURON COUNTY AIRPORT 53 53 NORWALK-HURON COUNTY AIRPORT A new beginning for a small airfield 63 ROSWELL AIR CENTER The Flight Path to Becoming a Southwest Aviation Hub
REVOLUTIONALISING AIRPORT TECH: TRENDS THAT WILL SH Source: https://airportindustry-news.com/ (SITA), First Published March 25th, 2025 What if airports weren’t just places we pass through, but intelligent hubs that anticipate our needs? With new tech on the rise, air travel is about to become smoother, smarter, and more connected than ever. So what will airports of the future look like? Let’s explore the innovations shaping the industry. BIOMETRICS ARE HERE TO STAY Picture this: you walk through an airport, and your face is your boarding pass.This isn’t a scene from a sci-fi movie; it’s the future of air travel. Biometric tech is making this vision a reality, offering a level of convenience that’s hard to imagine. It’s not in the distant future. Soon, facial recognition will be standard at check-in, security, and boarding gates, meaning less waiting and more personalized experiences. It’s all about using airport technology to make each journey smoother and more secure. But the potential of biometrics goes beyond just speeding up the process. Imagine a future where your face or fingerprint could customize your entire travel experience. From accessing VIP lounges to receiving personalized shopping and dining recommendations, biometric data can make every part of the journey better. Smart airports are already innovating with this tech, and it won’t be long before they become a regular part of our travel routine. It’s a leap towards a future where security and convenience walk hand in hand, making the passenger experience at airports easier for everyone. BAGGAGE HANDLING: AUTOMATION AND AI Let’s talk about one of the biggest stress points of travel: lost luggage. The future of baggage tracking is all about peace of mind. Automated baggage handling with real-time tracking of bags will soon be the norm, giving passengers constant updates on their location. Automated bag-drop systems and smart tags will communicate directly with phones, making sure travelers will always know where their luggage is. Imagine the relief of never having to worry about lost bags again! Think about a system that not only tracks your bag but also predicts the best route for it to take, so it joins travelers at their destination with zero delays. This predictive tech, along with AI and machine learning, Opening Lines 5 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
HAPE THE NEXT TERMINAL could improve smart baggage handling and make mishandling much less likely. This is how airlines and airports are reducing baggage mishandling. The future holds a promise where our luggage’s journey is as smooth and predictable as our own, so passengers can relax and enjoy their trip. HOW TO IMPROVE PASSENGER EXPERIENCE The airports of tomorrow have one thing in mind: you. The traveler. Airport technology will have flexible, adaptive solutions that cater to your needs, making your journey as smooth as possible. From AI-driven kiosks to mobile apps offering real-time information and support, navigating through airports will become second nature. Personalized services, like tailored shopping and dining recommendations, will turn travel experience into something extraordinary. This is why digital transformation is key to the future of airports. Let’s delve a bit deeper into PTE 2025 trends. Imagine an airport that adjusts in real-time to make every part of your trip run smoother. AI-driven systems could adjust things like lighting, air conditioning, and even crowd control depending on the time of day and how many people are around. This kind of tech will adapt to what travelers need, making every trip easier and more relaxed. Whether it’s through smart wayfinding systems to help you get around the terminal or personalized updates about gate changes and boarding times, airports are about to get a lot more responsive and easier to navigate. WHAT TO EXPECT FROM SMART AIRPORTS IN 2030 AND BEYOND Creating the future of air travel isn’t a solo effort. It’s about collaboration and innovation. Industry leaders are pulling together to push boundaries and create the best experience possible. Enhanced IT infrastructure and common-use solutions are just the beginning. By embracing tech innovations and staying ahead of the curve, we’re making sure that the future of airports is bright, secure, and incredibly efficient. As we rethink how we fly, it’s all about turning challenges into simple, effective solutions. By building strong partnerships and staying laser focused on innovation, we can lead the aviation industry into a new era. Let’s shape the future of travel together! 6 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
Source: https://airportindustry-news.com/ (SITA), First Published March 25th, 2025 Integration of IPS following the 2024 acquisition produces a global leader in CUTE and CUSS product offer – paving the way for frictionless airport travel. SITA, the global leader in air transport technology, has announced the formal integration of IPS Intelligent Passenger Solutions into its SITA Airports portfolio. The move further positions SITA as the market leader in airport technology and innovation. Under its new name, ‘IPS a SITA company’ delivers a strengthened range of products that deliver intelligent passenger solutions including self-service bag drop systems, kiosks, touchless scanners and printers, and associated technologies. IPS, a SITA company now sits SITA & IPS LAUNCH GOLD STANDARD OFFER WITH INTELLIGENT PASSENGER SOLUTIONS alongside airport operations, passenger processing and baggage systems in a new gold standard for the Aviation Technology Industry (ATI) and passengers alike. SITA completed regulatory formalities and legal procedures to acquire IPS in July and, now combined, is supporting an unprecedented acceleration of global aviation industry digitalization, streamlining checkin, baggage handling, security, and airport operation processes alike. Travelers can expect to see reduced wait times, smoother journeys, and a new era of personalized and easy to use digital services. In addition to ‘IPS a SITA company’, the SITA Airports portfolio continues to lead the way in supporting the Aviation Transport Industry with market leading products and services.These include technologies such OPENING LINES 7 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
as biometrics, with 85% of international air passengers served globally, Common Use Terminal Equipment (CUTE) and Common Use Self Service (CUSS) kiosks, together with Airport Management Systems (AMS) and Airside Optimizer solutions that deliver smooth, efficient and sustainable airport decision-making. All help to support airports to maximize terminal capacities and deliver best-in-class secure solutions that provide ‘frictionless travel’ for passengers, where biometrics, facial recognition, and self-service solutions transform airports from simple transit hubs to digital, highly personalized travel experiences. Airports worldwide need to adopt technologies that can remove unnecessary bottlenecks at pinch points like check-in, security and embarkation.The addition of IPS, a SITA company, combines the best of our marketleading SITA and IPS products and expertise to deliver seamless travel experiences. This unrivaled gold standard portfolio will enable our airport customers to deliver the solutions that will ultimately ensure passengers worldwide enjoy an easier and frictionless travel experience, devoid of frustrating and lengthy queues. By combining CUTE and CUSS kiosks with biometric and facial recognition technology, and our IPS portfolio, SITA is at the forefront of developments that will ultimately reshape the future of airport travel. Together, we are setting a new standard in automated passenger handling for the aviation industry. By connecting our expertise, we are positioned to deliver even greater value to airlines and airports worldwide. Our integration enhances our ability to streamline the passenger journey and drive innovation that meets the evolving needs of the industry. More than 2,300 Self-Bag Drop kiosks are already deployed in over 120 airports globally, handling some 150,000 daily bag drops around the world.This makes IPS, a SITA company the indisputable market leader in terms of end-to-end solutions at airports, with over 13 billion air passengers using its systems annually. IPS provides best-in-class secure solutions for all common-use passenger touchpoints, from check-in to Self-Bag Drop, baggage claim and boarding systems, plus integrated biometric identification, cloud-based fully managed services and smart payment technology. With a global presence and locally-based expertise, IPS a SITA company provides dedicated support to each customer, acting quickly and professionally to meet their requirements. 8 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
Source: https://nbaa.org/, News Editor, First Published April 03, 2025 A recent interim final rule significantly narrows the scope of the Corporate Transparency Act (CTA), which was enacted on Jan. 1, 2021, to enhance financial transparency and strengthen anti-money laundering efforts. However, the act faced several legal challenges regarding its constitutionality. The CTA authorized the Treasury Department’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) to request limited liability companies (LLCs) and other entities to report “ultimate beneficial-owner information,” including name, date of birth, current address and more. Originally, this requirement would apply to entities which own business aircraft like LLCs and corporations, which are commonly used for a host of business and tax reasons. Now, only foreign companies registered to do business in the U.S. are required to report to FinCEN and those foreign entities are not required to report information about U.S. beneficial owners. “The change in the interim final rule was significant,” said Jeff Towers, general counsel at TVPX, which specializes in aircraft trust services, customs brokerage and more.“It eliminated the requirement that domestic reporting companies submit beneficial ownership information. Essentially any company formed in the U.S. is not required to report through the FinCEN portal, even if the owners of the entity are non-U.S. citizens.” The interim final rule’s impact for business aircraft owners is significant, as the CTA applies to LLCs, corporations and other business structures commonly used for aircraft ownership. Now, these structures – if U.S. organizations – are exempt from reporting beneficial ownership information to FinCEN. Towers added, “The whole concept behind the CTA INTERIM FINAL RULE NARROWS SCOPE OF CORPORATE TRANSPARENCY ACT and momentum for its enactment were concerns that foreign bad actors were using shell companies in the U.S. to carry on illicit activities. The CTA was intended to shed light on who those people were and hopefully prevent them from doing anything inappropriate.” FinCEN estimates only 20,000 entities will now be required to file beneficial ownership information, compared to the 32.6 million entities required to report under the original rule. While the CTA’s overall scope has reduced dramatically, this may not be the end of the act for U.S. business aircraft owners.The interim final rule is OPENING LINES 9 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
open for comment until May 27, after which FinCEN will publish a final rule. Until then, the narrower scope applies. Towers noted that while the CTA might not impact U.S. business aircraft owners at this time, the FAA is considering regulatory action to require aircraft owners to report more transparent information regarding beneficial owners. The U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO) found in a 2020 report that the FAA allows civil aircraft registration applicants to submit “opaque” information on beneficial owners – that is, the persons who ultimately own and control the aircraft. The GAO made 15 recommendations to the FAA, three of which have been adopted. “In the context of business aviation, we still have the GAO recommendations that the FAA has agreed to which include collecting information about beneficial owners of aircraft. It’s possible we see a proposed rule on this later this year,” said Towers. However, it is unclear whether an expanded scope of the CTA or additional FAA reporting requirements will be a priority under the current administration. 10 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
Aviation View BIG SANDY REGIONAL AIRPORT ‘THE WELCOME MAT TO EASTERN KENTUCKY’ ROSWELL AIR CENTER THE FLIGHT PATH TO BECOMING A SOUTHWEST AVIATION HUB CHIPPEWA COUNTY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT SOARING TO NEW HEIGHTS WITH THE PASSENGER IN MIND NORWALK-HURON COUNTY AIRPORT A NEW BEGINNING FOR A SMALL AIRFIELD MEACHAM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT A CENTURY OF AVIATION EXCELLENCE MCALESTER REGIONAL AIRPORT A REGIONAL AIRPORT SETTING THE BAR HIGH 11 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
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BIG SANDY REGIONAL AIRPORT ‘THE WELCOME M EASTERN KENTU AT A GLANCE BIG SANDY REGIONAL AIRPORT WHAT: E astern Kentucky’s dynamic General Aviation Airport puts the customer experience first while promoting tourism in the area WHERE: M artin County, near Prestonburg in Eastern Kentucky HOW ONE AIRPORT IS SHAPING THE LOCAL FLYING EXPERIENCE FRIENDLY GREETING FOR EVERY PASSENGER 13 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
MAT TO UCKY’ Tucked in the serene beauty of Eastern Kentucky just ten miles northeast of Prestonsburg, within Martin County, lies Big Sandy Regional Airport, a thriving and dynamic public-use airport. Gary W. Cox, the airport’s Aviation Manager, is at the helm of the airport operations. With a focus E WHILE OFFERING A 14 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
on what is to come for the airport and ensuring unparalleled customer service, Cox is determined to offer its passengers everything they need when they touch down. “I have been a pilot for 22 years,” Cox begins.“I have also been running the airport for 24 years and my favorite thing about running the airport is the people you meet.” While these words aptly describe the love and dedication that Cox has for Big Sandy Regional Airport, they also hold an extra special significance. At the heart of Cox’s aviation business model is the firm belief that it is the people that fly in that bring the airport such vitality and these people are always given a friendly and personalized landing every time by Cox and his team. “Literally because of a restaurant on the field, we get a lot of people coming from Florida, the Michigan area, and then people traveling north and people traveling sound who stop here,” Cox describes. “They can get fuel, a meal, and then head on their way. We get a lot of transient business which provides the opportunity to meet people from all over the county and that is the most satisfying part of my job,” he adds. Although old enough to retire and enjoy the simple life, Cox admits that he would miss the airport too much and this is the reason that he remains committed to its continued growth and success while always offering a first-in-class passenger service for anyone walking through the terminal doors. “I could have retired five years ago if I wanted to, but I enjoy the airport, and it is just such a wonderful way to meet people.” Emphasizing that aviation is very much a people’s business, Cox equates the aviation community to those that one would find in a lakeside community. “Aviation is just like the people you meet on the lake. You rarely ever meet a person you don’t like in aviation. I have been here 24 years and I have only had to have words with one person,” he elaborates. 15 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01 BIG SANDY REGIONAL AIRPORT
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TOURISM TAKING OFF Established in the early eighties as an airport to serve the local coal industry, Big Sandy Regional Airport has shifted gears over the ensuing decades to transition into a thriving general aviation airport with the occasional cargo flight landing on its tarmac. “I am a privately run fixed-based operator, Cox Aviation. I run the FBO here at the airport, all fixedbased operations, and we also run Side by Side Tours in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky which include elk viewing,” Cox states. The airport authority that owns Big Sandy Regional Airport oversees four local counties, while the airport sits in Martin County. Cox notes that the airport sees a mix of commercial, private, and recreational GA traffic coming in and out. “Everyone doing business in these four counties uses our airport, lands here, and visits their companies. We have recreational traffic as well.” The airport offers a single runway that is slightly over 5,000 feet in length and sits on an area that encompasses 136 acres at an elevation of 1,221 feet. Managing an airport that sees regular general aviation traffic through its doors, Cox is encouraged to see numbers track upwards to reach pre-pandemic numbers. He continues to offer a “full service” experience including fueling services that are rare today as the aviation sector is shifting away from providing these unique options for travelers and has opted often for self-serve fueling. “Last year was a very busy year. We had a substantial increase in traffic last year over the COVID-19 years. While the days of coal industry-related aviation traffic are long gone, tourism has taken center stage for Big Sandy Regional Airport, Cox highlights. “We have a new business here at the airport called Airport Cottages. There are two Air B&Bs now at the airport just outside the fence of the airport,” Cox notes. “So you can go on a Side By Side tour, rent a cottage, spend time eating at our airport restaurant, Cloud 9, and fly back the next day. This is fantastic.” There is plenty to see while touring the beautiful area the airport serves, including viewing a 2000acre solar farm, and several reclaimed areas that once housed coal mining facilities. In addition, Cox also draws attention to a spectacular new golf course, Stone Crest, that is near completion within 17 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01 BIG SANDY REGIONAL AIRPORT
a short drive from the airport grounds. “It’s a mountain top golf course that sits on a reclaimed surface mine about two [mountain] ridges from the airport,” Cox relays. “A guy that moved here from Washington, DC redid this golf course and it is absolutely gorgeous. He is now finishing up these final touches on it.” Future plans for this tourist draw include the development of cottages on the golf course for people to “stay and play.” Cox also points out that First Frontier has opened a trail system in Eastern Kentucky that has provided the perfect route to explore the splendor of the local Kentucky mountains. 18 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
To add to the tourist draw, Cox also points to the towns in the county that are tourist highlights in their own right. “In Prestonsburg, we have what is called the Mountain Arts Center which is a nice venue for country and western stars.” Then there is Route 23, nicknamed the Country Music Highway. “Every county that the route passes through has a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame which is located in the town of Paintsville, in Johnson County, that is also part of Big Sandy.” “So we have a lot of tourism things going on here now that the coal industry is gone and this is what we are trying to base our economy on,” Cox summarizes. BUSINESS GROWTH IS TAKING OFF. While aviation numbers head northward, Cox is also thoroughbredaviationmaintenance.com thoroughbredhelicopters.com 859-255-1902 At Thoroughbred Aviation Maintenance, we deliver top-tier, FAA-certified aircraft maintenance solutions, combining unmatched expertise with a commitment to safety and precision for every client. 19 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01 BIG SANDY REGIONAL AIRPORT
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paying close attention to the business potential on the airport grounds. “We already have a painting facility, Thoroughbred Aviation, here at the airport that paints helicopters and airplanes.” “The Diesel Brothers bought an army Black Hawk helicopter and had it painted here at their facility,” he elaborates. “Over the last eight or nine years this has just exploded. It takes some money to buy a Black Hawk helicopter and to operate a Black Hawk helicopter but we are having a second one painted out there right at the painting facility,” he says. Cox relays that he is also open to any business to set up shop at the airport that could “produce jobs in Eastern Kentucky.” “We fully support it.” AIRPORT INFRASTRUCTURE IS TAKING OFF AHEAD. Having upgraded the majority of the items on its masterplan infrastructure list, Cox notes that the airport is in very good shape for the next decade or so. Work was carried out roughly three years ago on a new taxi land and general runway rehabilitation which has positioned the airport where Cox would like it to be. “The construction firm did a great job carrying out the construction, the runway overlay, and safety overruns that were finished here.” “We are in the process of seeking money to have the lighting system upgraded to LED here at the airport. We have not gotten approval from the FAA, but we are in the process of requesting that.” Beyond looking to ideally add an additional corporate hangar and a backup generator in case of catastrophic weather,“the infrastructure is in very good shape right now, overall,” he determines. 21 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01 BIG SANDY REGIONAL AIRPORT
PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Thoroughbred Aviation www.thoroughbredaviationmaintenance.com www.thoroughbredhelicopters.com With over 40 years of experience, Thoroughbred Aviation Maintenance is the leading helicopter maintenance facility in the Southeast. We also offer Thoroughbred Helicopter Sales & Leasing for helicopter purchases and leases. From private to corporate and law enforcement to utility, rely on us for exceptional maintenance, service, and aircraft acquisition solutions. We are committed to meeting all your aviation needs. As to the future of Big Sandy Regional Airport, Cox points once again to its continued focus on providing a full-service, friendly, and personalized airport greeting for its valued customers. “I have brochures, for example, that I hand out to people about the cottages.” “I have got the only job in America where people literally drop out of the sky and give you money. What is not to love about my job,” he concludes. Customers would have to agree with Cox as they continue to experience firsthand a friendly airport that prioritizes the flying public with a smile. 22 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
SOARING TO NEW WITH THE PASSE MIND CHIPPEWA COUNTY INTERNATIONAL AIRPOR AT A GLANCE CHIPPEWA COUNTY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT WHAT: L eading Commercial and GA airport with international traffic and a new terminal to welcome passenger growth numbers WHERE: K incheloe, Chippewa County, MI WEBSITE: www.airciu.com 23 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
W HEIGHTS ENGER IN RT With strong military roots that trace back to a previous Air Force Base that closed its doors in 1977, Chippewa County International Airport is redefining itself as it continues to grow. Much of this growth can be attributed to the tireless efforts of the airport staff currently led by Airport Manager, Tami L. Beseau at the helm. A dedicated and passionate aviation professional, Beseau has the knowledge and strategic mindset to take this airport to new heights. The airport’s current success can also be attributed to the county’s Economic Development Corporation’s leadership, and Airport Manager Beseau’s vast experience, which guided it to take off successfully into another year ahead. FOCUSED ON STREAMLINING SERVICES AND WELCOMING MORE AVIATION TRAFFIC, THIS AIRPORT IS FLYING INTO THE NEW YEAR 24 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
“As a former Air Force Base, we have a mammoth runway that at one time was 12,000 feet for civilian use,” Beseau begins. “It was reduced down to 7200 feet but it is still a runway that would handle Air Force One and smaller type aircraft as well.” GROWING AIRPORT OPERATIONS Chippewa County International Airport is a commercial airport that also sees significant General Aviation and corporate traffic land at its doorstep. “We are served by a Delta connection airline, Sky West Airlines, that operates the route for Delta Airlines in that they are a Delt connection operator seven days a week,” Beseau offers. “We go to both Minneapolis and Detroit once a day round trip and this year we will be working up to 50,000 total passengers.” For a community that is roughly 30,000, these passenger numbers are very significant, Beseau notes. She does add that if the area is to include their Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario partners, “We are up to about 100,000 or more folks in the demographic area that we are serving here.” “There is also the business traveler,” Beseau adds.“ It is a great setup because this is a beautiful area and we have lots of islands, lots of summer cottages and there are several folks that can fly charter to get to some of these locations.” “We also get many large charters throughout different times of the year such as hockey teams during the NCAA championships.” “So we are busy on both sides, both with the Commercial Service and the charter activity,” Beseau summarizes. LANDING AT A NEW TERMINAL WITH EASE To welcome passengers flying into Chippewa County International, the airport has recently built a new general aviation terminal that also caters to major freight operators including FedEx and UPS that frequently utilize the facility with larger aircraft. Beseau highlights that the primary motivation for building the terminal came down to streamlining the aviation experience for its passengers and to the aesthetics of the facilities they would be greeted by. “We knew we could do better. Make the terminal more user friendly, provide better amenities so we worked for many years with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to see what type of funding would be available to the airport,” Beseau describes. “I asked the FAA if it would ever consider funding a general aviation terminal and they said that all of our airside improvements need to be completed and in great shape [see this happen].” 25 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01 CHIPPEWA COUNTY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
After approaching the FAA in 2013, in response to the FAA’s request to secure the necessary funding, the airport set forth to address any airside improvements that needed to be immediately addressed. “We concentrated on anything pavement-wise that needed to be upgraded and we did any lighting projects that needed to be completed within the next couple of years,” Beseau recalls. In 2019, Beseau approached the FAA again and said,“Come take a look. We believe all of our airside improvements have been upgraded and they agreed.” With an initial budget of close to $5 million provided by the FAA and additional local funding of $1.5 million through COVID due to escalating construction costs, the impressive new terminal was completed in 2022. “The building is about 10,000 square feet and is a one-and-a-half-story building.” Aiming to incorporate the airport’s long and distinguished history and military roots was an important aspect, Beseau points out, that is reflected in the aesthetics of the new terminal building. “First of all we wanted to make it very pleasant for people who are flying in and then we included a lot of the history throughout the building,” Beseau says. “We are a port of entry airport and customs is not on site, but they will come and clear airplanes so part of what we wanted to do is also make it comfortable for the passengers with a room within the terminal, international seating where they are allowed to then get off the airplane and go into that area. The international seating area includes a restroom and a television for passenger entertainment and although they can not bring any luggage with them it keeps them segregated from the other passengers until customs can arrive. “This represents an important amenity for our international travelers.” The new terminal also included LED lighting and was built to be energy efficient and aesthetically pleasing for the weary traveler, Beseau points out. ECONOMIC TIES TO THE REGION Several years after the Air Force Base closed its doors in 1977 the Chippewa County Economic Development Corporation was formed with the primary intent to provide an economic direction for the airport. “The EDC was formed to try to fill that economic void that was gone and we were trying to look at the vision for the industrial park at the airport and 26 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
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Sault Ste. Marie is your gateway to adventure and the soul of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. As Michigan’s first city, Sault Ste. Marie blends rich history, engineering marvels, and breathtaking natural beauty, making it the perfect destination to rediscover what made you first fall in love with Michigan. Start your journey at the Soo Locks, one of the world’s busiest waterway systems. Stand on the observation platform as 1,000 ft. freighters navigate the locks, connecting Lake Superior to the lower Great Lakes. This engineering feat, operating since 1855, is more than functional—it’s a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. Nature enthusiasts will find Sault Ste. Marie a haven. Explore nearby Tahquamenon Falls, where amber waters cascade down two sets of falls – the largest in the Midwest. Just 45 minutes away, this natural wonder is a photographer’s dream and a hiker’s paradise. Close to the city, Mission Hill offers panoramic views of Lake Superior and the St. Marys River, ideal for those seeking tranquility. For history buffs, the Museum Ship Valley Camp provides a glimpse into the life of Great Lakes sailors. Tour the 550-foot retired freighter and learn about the legendary Edmund Fitzgerald, whose haunting story resonates deeply with maritime enthusiasts. Just a short drive away, Point Iroquois Lighthouse invites visitors to climb its tower for sweeping views and a walk through Michigan’s nautical past. Sault Ste. Marie isn’t just about sights—it’s about experiences. Attend the I-500 Snowmobile Race, a thrilling spectacle that epitomizes winter in Michigan. In summer, indulge in fishing or kayaking along the St. Marys River. The city’s vibrant downtown is filled with unique shops and dining options, offering everything from local craft beers to fresh whitefish sandwiches. Travelers seeking adventure, relaxation, or a family getaway will find their perfect vacation here. Whether you’re drawn to the roar of freighters, the whisper of forest trails, or the warmth of small-town charm, Sault Ste. Marie is more than a destination—it’s a memory waiting to be made. Rediscover Michigan’s roots and find your next adventure in the Soo. Your journey begins here.
what to do be done with the many assets that were left,” Chris Olson, President of the Chippewa County Economic Development Corporation, relays. “We now have 24 buildings that range from 5000 square feet to 77,000 square feet so these are tremendous assets and we continuously find areas of business that can be conducted out here for economic development,” Olson adds. In 1984 the airport was turned over to the EDC to manage and operate, and as Olson accurately points out, “There are not a whole lot of situations like that where you have an economic development corporation that oversees an airport operation; so we are very unique.” “I think it is a great combination because with the connectivity to the Sault, we have some fairly large infrastructure projects like the Sault Locks which represents a $3 billion infrastructure project and we have connectivity with the major hubs of Detroit and Minneapolis,” Olson elaborates. The airport is also home to a major car manufacturer that has operated out of its facilities for decades 29 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01 CHIPPEWA COUNTY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
and leases from the airport. The airport also helps to facilitate the company’s operations by providing the staff. “They are an exclusive partner and having that revenue derived, allows us to not have to draw money from the county to run the airport,” Olson continues. With manufacturers such as this, and as Olson draws attention to, the region’s propane distribution capabilities, the county is able to offset some of its shortfalls through the funding that they have at the airport. The airport also generates revenue through other valuable tenants including a major steel fabricator, a cyber security company, and a wood products business. “This is a great balance of that revenue offset any potential losses that we have and we can have that connectivity to this region,” Olson summarizes. TAKING OFF INTO THE NEW YEAR With the construction of the new terminal behind 30 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
them, Beseau is now turning her sights to upgrades that are in the airport’s master plan ahead. “We are talking about doing some lighting upgrades with our signs that we would like to make LEDs and this would be less costly to operate and there would be less likelihood of breakdowns requiring maintenance.” Another project for this upcoming summer is the airport’s planned concrete replacement on its general aviation ramps. “We are going to do a crack ceiling project and cut out some of the cement pads that need to be fixed.” “We are also looking into having a boarding bridge. A jet bridge is always a pleasant amenity for our passengers when it is raining or snowing and you do not have to walk across the concrete to get to your airplane.” Last, on the upcoming list, Beseau highlights are on the land side. The airport is planning through the monies left in the Airport Improvement Grant (AIG) to redo its parking lots and expand its commercial terminal parking lots in the process. 31 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01 CHIPPEWA COUNTY INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
PREFERRED VENDOR/PARTNER n Sault Ste. Marie Convention & Visitors Bureau www.saultstemarie.com Unlock the charm of Sault Ste. Marie, where adventure meets history. Marvel at the iconic Soo Locks, embrace outdoor beauty in every season, and explore the heart of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. From stunning waterways to vibrant local culture, discover the perfect destination to meet, connect, and flow with nature’s wonders. “I think that people would kill to be in our location,” he concludes. On the horizon, Olson also points to future partnerships with the Department of Defense and the Michigan National Guard to look into the region’s strategic location for satellite tracking and data transmission. Unlocking the potential the airport and the region have to further this activity is an exciting prospect, Olson and Beseau agree. “We have so many great assets, we are two miles off of the I 75 major interstate and we are served by air and rail. The connectivity to this region is like no other that I could ever imagine,” Olson says. 32 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
A CENTURY O EXCELLENCE MEACHAM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AT A GLANCE MEACHAM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT WHAT: G eneral Aviation Airport National Reliever serving business aviation, flight training, medical transport, and specialized operations WHERE: F ort Worth, Texas WEBSITE: www.fortworthtexas.gov/departments/aviation/meacham 33 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
OF AVIATION E Located in Fort Worth, Texas, Meacham International Airport has been a vital part of the region’s aviation infrastructure since its establishment in 1925. Originally named Fort Worth Municipal Airport, it was renamed in honor of former Fort Worth Mayor Henry C. Meacham in 1927. As one of the oldest operating airports in Texas, Meacham has evolved from its early days as Fort Worth’s primary commercial airport to become a crucial general aviation facility serving the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. FORT WORTH’S HISTORIC AIRPORT SOARS INTO ITS NEXT CENTURY WITH INNOVATIVE INFRASTRUCTURE, BOOMING PRIVATE AVIATION, AND A MISSION TO INSPIRE FUTURE GENERATIONS. 34 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
Aviation Systems Director Roger Venables outlines the airport’s current role with precision: “We’re classified as a general aviation airport national reliever. While we have no scheduled passenger service, we handle everything else.” The facility has become a cornerstone for business aviation and corporate on-demand services, alongside hosting flight schools, maintenance facilities, emergency services, and recreational flying. The airport’s prominence in private aviation continues to grow. Following the pandemic, we noticed about a 28% increase in the on-demand service sector,” Venables explains. This surge in activity has transformed the airport’s operational metrics dramatically. “Our operations in terms of takeoffs and landings have increased almost 67%. We essentially went from about 137,000 operations, and this year we’re going to probably reach 230,000.” Meacham’s operations stand out due to their diversity. A significant share of the airport’s activity comes from helicopter operations.As Venables explains,“We have a major helicopter training program here. It’s very active, accounting for roughly 20% of our operations.” Additionally, the airport supports essential medical services, such as the Teddy Bear program run by Cook Children’s Medical Center, which provides critical care patient transport. Meacham’s rich history includes pioneering commercial aviation in the region.“This year marks our 100th anniversary,” Venables remarks. “We launched our first passenger service from Meacham to Oklahoma City in 1933.” Regular commercial flights continued until the early 1960s, when operations moved to Greater Southwest International Airport, which was later replaced by D/FW International Airport in 1974.Although some regional carriers have operated briefly at Meacham since then, its primary strength lies in its current role.“We’re located just 4.8 miles north of downtown Fort Worth,”Venables notes. “This strategic location makes it highly convenient for the business community to access Fort Worth efficiently.” STRATEGIC GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT The strategic value of Meacham International Airport extends far beyond its runways, creating a vital 35 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01 MEACHAM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
connection point for businesses and institutions across Fort Worth’s expanding landscape.The airport’s position enables it to serve as a crucial gateway for both domestic and international travelers seeking direct access to the city’s flourishing districts. “A number of corporations choose to call Meacham home, primarily due to our strategic location relative to downtown,” Venables explains. The airport offers convenient access to Fort Worth’s major attractions, including the historic Stockyards, which maintains its distinctive cowboy culture while experiencing a modern renaissance.The cultural district, near South Medical District, and the new Texas A&M Fort Worth research and innovation hub further enhance the airport’s significance. The addition of on-site U.S. Customs has significantly boosted international traffic at Meacham. “In 2019, the year we introduced on-site customs, we handled around 59 flights. This year, we’re nearing 500 cleared flights,” Venables shares. The facility accommodates aircraft from North America, South America, and Europe, providing an alternative to larger commercial airports. “Operators can avoid the air traffic congestion at commercial airports. They can easily come and go from Meacham, and we have the necessary airfield facilities to support them,” Venables explains. Meacham’s physical footprint encompasses over 900 acres, with recent projects unlocking new potential. The removal of an underutilized cross runway in 2016-2017 resulted in a 35-acre midfield development area. “We now have four large new hangars built by outside developers, with more projects in the planning phase,” Venables shares. There are also expansion opportunities on the airport’s west side, where 12 acres lie between the main and secondary runways. The airport’s future development is guided by a comprehensive master plan, adopted by the city council last year.“The last master planning effort was done in 2004,”Venables explains.“It’s a very thorough facilities plan showing how we think development could occur on the airport and the landside and airside improvements necessary to meet future needs, opening up those areas for opportunities.”This 36 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
strategic blueprint positions Meacham to meet the growing aviation demands of Fort Worth’s business and recreational flying communities. INFRASTRUCTURE RENEWAL AND MODERNIZATION As Meacham International Airport reaches its centennial, a comprehensive modernization initiative is reshaping its facilities and infrastructure. The airport’s financial independence - operating without general fund or taxpayer support - has enabled strategic reinvestment of increased revenues into critical improvements across the facility. “Our growing activity has brought increased revenue, enabling us to replace aging infrastructure essential to our operations,” Venables says. The airport has allocated $65 million for capital investments over the next five years, addressing both current needs and future development opportunities. This comprehensive plan includes upgrades ranging from fundamental infrastructure to state-of-theart aviation facilities. Current projects include a new maintenance building through a design-build initiative, but the most visible transformation will occur along Main Street. “Our airport frontage project is about a $10 million 37 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01 MEACHAM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
investment that will improve lighting, mobility, and infrastructure. We don’t even have sidewalks today,” Venables notes. The enhancement plan includes advanced wayfinding systems and stormwater management solutions, promising both functional and aesthetic improvements to the airport’s public face. The Infrastructure Investment Jobs Act of 2021 has provided another significant boost to Meacham’s modernization efforts. The airport was selected as one of just 31 facilities nationwide to receive funding for a new air traffic control tower.“The new tower will rise to 119 feet,” Venables says. “It’s not only an improvement to the airport functionally, but it enhances air traffic management with better visibility across the entire airport.” Notably, Meacham will be the first general aviation airport to receive its tower under this program. The airport’s two Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) play crucial roles in its success. Modern Aviation, with its national presence, and Texas Jet, a premier independent operator known for winning industry awards, provide essential services to aircraft owners and operators. “They provide concierge services, fueling services, transportation outside the airport, catering, and more,” Venables explains. Both FBOs own facilities for transit and long-term aircraft storage, and excel at serving military aircraft that periodically visit the field.As Venables puts it,“When they’re successful, your airport is successful.” TRAINING THE NEXT GENERATION The aviation industry’s pressing need for skilled professionals, from pilots to maintenance technicians, Airports are community partners, fueling economic potential and connecting businesses and travelers to opportunity and back to home. Garver is the trusted partner of commercial and general airports across the country because we’re invested in our communities and dedicated to helping the airports that support them grow and thrive. Connecting Communities GarverUSA.com 38 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
finds substantial support at Meacham International Airport.Through a combination of established flight schools and specialized maintenance facilities, the airport plays a vital role in addressing the industry’s workforce challenges. Delta Qualiflight heads the airport’s flight training programs as the largest flight school on-site. Supporting this, Rich Aviation offers additional flight training services, while Helicopter Institute specializes in rotary-wing training.“About a year ago, they secured a contract with the Navy to provide initial helicopter training for new pilots – their first 50 hours in a helicopter,” Venables explains. This innovative partnership is the Navy’s first collaboration with civilian operators for early-stage pilot training. Under the leadership of Randy Rowles, the Helicopter Institute has created a robust training environment that extends beyond military contracts. “Randy has done a fantastic job with his helicopter training operations,” Venables notes. The program’s success not only advances aviation education but also injects valuable resources into the local economy. The airport’s maintenance capabilities span the full spectrum of aircraft care “ Everything from airframe 39 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01 MEACHAM INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
to avionics,” Venables explains. Among the stalwart maintenance providers is Broadie’s Aircraft, a business that exemplifies the airport’s longstanding tradition of technical excellence.“They’ve been on this airfield for 79 years,” Venables points out, highlighting the deep roots of aviation expertise at Meacham. BUILDING TOMORROW’S AVIATION COMMUNITY Beyond infrastructure improvements and daily operations, Meacham International Airport has embraced a broader mission of inspiring future generations to explore aviation careers.The airport’s comprehensive educational outreach program, launched a couple of years ago, represents a strategic approach to engaging young minds with the multifaceted world of aviation. “We host numerous tours where we invite schools to visit the airport,” Venables explains. The airport takes advantage of its distinctive resources to offer engaging experiences. “We have two museums onsite: the Fort Worth Aviation Museum, a static display museum, and the Vintage Flying Museum, where they restore and fly classic aircraft.” These museums provide a tangible connection to the history of aviation. 40 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 05, ISSUE 01
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