recognizing that the airport’s strategic location and operational viability were better managed at the county level. This transition marked the beginning of a new chapter focused on modernization and community service. This shift allowed the county to spearhead several enhancements to make the facility more userfriendly and capable of meeting the community’s evolving needs. “We’ve upgraded the Terminal to make it a little more accommodating for anybody coming and going. We’ve upgraded our fuel purchasing systems. So, we’ve got on-site fuel available, all anybody needs is a credit card,” Says Reeve of Big Lakes County Tyler Airth. Significant investments have been made in the airport’s infrastructure, including the installation of an automated fuel purchasing system. This modern setup allows users to refuel their aircraft with ease, using a credit card much like a regular gas station. The airport offers both jet fuel and aviation gasoline (AV gas), which has greatly streamlined operations for various types of aircraft. These upgrades come as a complement to a past project the airport underwent to rebuild and extend its runway, which now measures 4,332 feet long and 75 feet wide. This expansion has not only improved the runway’s capacity but also enhanced safety and operational efficiency. The apron and taxiways were also resurfaced with fresh asphalt, ensuring that the airport can accommodate a range of aircraft sizes and types. Overall, this overhaul reflects the airport’s commitment to creating a welcoming environment for all travelers. THE LOCAL IMPACT OF THE AIRPORT OPERATION While the High Prairie Regional Airport serves a diverse range of users. It has space on its apron for 15 to 20 planes, which is frequently utilized 66 AVIATION VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 04, ISSUE 03
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