General aviation at Four Corners Regional Airport has seen remarkable growth. “We’ve gone from 33,000 operations in 2016 to 52,000 in 2023,” Lewis points out. Despite a slight dip during the COVID-19 pandemic, this growth indicates a robust upward trend in airport activity. TOURISM AND DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES Four Corners Regional Airport’s strategic position as the fourth largest airport in New Mexico is a significant asset that extends beyond aviation. It creates avenues for tourism and commercial development, pivotal for the region’s economic growth. “We have about 120 acres on the north side of the airfield,” Lewis explains, discussing the potential for future development. The vision includes aviationrelated projects such as hangars and overhaul facilities, but the possibilities extend further. “The remainder of that property wouldn’t have as much restriction on how it could be developed.” However, accessing this land presents challenges. “The airport is located on a mesa,” he details. The terrain’s steep drop at both runway ends complicates building a road around the runway to the north side. Discussions are underway to develop a right of way or acquire property to facilitate this access. Tourism, another vital area, sees a substantial impact from the airport’s operations. “There’s been about a 12 to 15% increase in GA flights,” notes Lewis, attributing this to the rise in private flights. He cites multiple attractions drawing visitors to the area. “New Mexico is working to attract outdoor recreation as a tourist destination,” he says, highlighting efforts to increase awareness of the state’s offerings.A prime example is the world-renowned fly-fishing waters on the San Juan River, attracting global enthusiasts. Additionally, the region is rich in archaeological sites, home to ancient Native American cultures.“We have several archaeological sites around this region,” says Lewis, pointing out that some of these sites date back to before the time of Christ. This historical wealth is complemented by the discovery of dinosaur fossils and petrified wood, with one of the only fullsize fossilized skeletons of a baby Tyrannosaurus rex found in the Bisti Badlands. The airport’s proximity to Colorado further enhances its appeal. “People can enjoy fishing and rafting,” he notes, adding that Navajo Lake offers boating adventures, fishing, and camping.This abundance of outdoor activities contributes to the influx of aircraft, with many visitors staying for extended periods. “We’re getting a lot of aircraft coming in, some of them jets, some of them large turboprops,” Lewis 50 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 04, ISSUE 03
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